Using brain stimulation to treat methamphetamine addiction

Closed-loop Neuromodulation Based on Individualised EEG Biomarkers of Methamphetamine Use Disorder

Not applicable Interventional Shanghai Mental Health Center · NCT06457243

This study is testing a new brain stimulation method to see if it can help people with methamphetamine addiction by reducing their cravings.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorShanghai Mental Health Center Academic / other
Locations1 site (Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality)
Trial IDNCT06457243 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the use of closed-loop continuous Theta-burst Stimulation (cTBS) to treat individuals with methamphetamine use disorder by targeting specific EEG biomarkers associated with cravings. It aims to assess the dosage and effects of this neuromodulatory technique compared to traditional open-loop methods. By focusing on brain states, the study seeks to modulate neural activity in the prefrontal cortex to reduce cravings and improve treatment outcomes for addiction. Participants will undergo stimulation based on their brain activity, which is monitored throughout the process.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18 to 60 with a diagnosed methamphetamine use disorder and a history of substance use for at least one year.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairments, other substance dependencies, or severe mental illnesses may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce cravings and improve treatment outcomes for individuals struggling with methamphetamine addiction.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using EEG biomarkers and closed-loop stimulation is innovative, previous studies have shown promise in using rTMS for addiction treatment, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Individuals aged between 18 and 60 years, irrespective of gender, having completed a minimum of 9 years of education and capable of effectively cooperating in questionnaire evaluations.
* Meet the diagnostic criteria set forth by the DSM-V concerning the amphetamine-type substance addiction.
* A history of utilizing amphetamine-type substances for a duration not less than one year, with a frequency of use being at least once per week.
* Consent to actively cooperate in the completion of subsequent follow-up assessments.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Severe cognitive functional impairments manifested through a history of head trauma, cerebrovascular diseases, epilepsy, etc., or usage of cognitive enhancement drugs in the past 6 months; an intellectual disability with an IQ score less than 70.
* A diagnosis of schizophrenia or other severe mental illnesses as per the DSM-5 criteria.
* Abuse or dependence on other psychoactive substances (excluding nicotine) within the past 5 years.
* Severe organic diseases that might compromise study participation.
* Contraindications to cTBS, such as a history of epileptic seizures or the presence of metallic implants in proximity to the head.

Where this trial is running

Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Amphetamine Use Disordersindividualized therapyclosed-loopAmphetamine-type stimulantscTBS
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.