Using deep TMS to treat methamphetamine use disorder in veterans

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) as a treatment for veterans suffering from methamphetamine use disorder (MUD). The approach involves targeting deeper brain regions to modulate neural circuits associated with addiction, aiming to improve treatment outcomes compared to traditional methods. Participants will receive either active dTMS or a sham treatment, with the goal of reducing cravings and relapse rates. The study leverages innovative H-coil designs to stimulate multiple brain networks, potentially enhancing neuroplasticity and recovery.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion:

* Must be within the age range of 25-75.
* Participants must meet Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition (DSM-5) criteria for moderate to severe MUD (≥4 diagnostic symptoms).
* Participants must be able to obtain a Motor Threshold (MT), which will be determined during the screening process.
* Participants must have an adequately stable condition and environment to enable attendance at scheduled clinic visits.
* Participants must be able to read, verbalize, understand, and voluntarily sign the Informed Consent Form prior to participation in study procedures in English.
* If participants are on a medication regimen for comorbid symptoms, that regimen will be stable for the duration of the study and patient will be willing to remain on this regimen during the treatment phase.
* Participants must be fluent in English

Exclusion criteria:

* Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) contraindications: such as a cardiac pacemaker, cochlear implant, or an implanted device (deep brain stimulation, ferromagnetic metal in the head and body, claustrophobia, pregnant or breastfeeding or other ferromagnetic device/object in the head and body within 30 cm of the treatment coil.
* General medical condition, disease, or neurological disorder that interferes with the assessments or participation.
* Unable to safely withdraw, at least two weeks prior to treatment, from medications that increase seizure risk.
* Current substance abuse as determined by positive toxicology screen
* Have a mass lesion, cerebral infarct, or other active CNS disease, including a seizure disorder.
* A recent suicide attempt (defined as within the last 30 days) or presence of current suicidal plan or intent. Patients at risk for suicide will be required to establish a written safety plan involving their primary therapist before entering the study.
* Severe impediment to vision, hearing and/or hand movement, as this is likely to interfere with the ability to follow study protocols.
* Greater than mild traumatic brain injury (defined as greater than 10 minutes loss of consciousness).
* Taking benzodiazepines or neuroleptic medications, or any medication known to alter seizure threshold.
* Acute or unstable chronic illness.
* Current or lifetime history of bipolar disorder or psychosis.
* Participation in another concurrent intervention-based clinical trial.

Where it's running

• VA Palo Alto Health Care System
  Palo Alto, California, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Claudia B Padula, PhD — Stanford University
• Study coordinator: Samantha Ward, BS
• Email: samward@stanford.edu
• Phone: 650-493-5000

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• ECG changes in adults using methamphetamine with and without psychosis

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.