Using magnetic stimulation to improve vision in adults with amblyopia

Effect of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Visual Functions of Adult Amblyopia: a Preliminary Study

Not applicable Interventional National Taiwan University Hospital · NCT05393739

This study is testing whether a new type of magnetic stimulation can help adults with amblyopia see better by improving how their brain processes vision.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Taiwan University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Taipei County)
Trial IDNCT05393739 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on visual functions in adults suffering from amblyopia, a condition that leads to impaired vision due to underdevelopment of the visual cortex. Participants aged 20-50 with a significant difference in visual acuity between their eyes will undergo theta burst stimulation to potentially enhance neuroplasticity and improve visual outcomes. The study aims to explore a novel non-invasive treatment approach for a condition that currently lacks effective therapies in adults. By examining the relationship between visual experience and brain function, the research seeks to provide insights into possible recovery mechanisms for amblyopia.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 20-50 with amblyopia and a minimum of 2 lines difference in best-corrected visual acuity between their eyes.

Not a fit: Patients with unstable vital signs, neurological disorders, or a history of seizures may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could offer a new, effective option for improving vision in adults with amblyopia.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of rTMS in treating amblyopia is relatively novel, preliminary studies have shown promise in enhancing neuroplasticity and visual function.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Adult amblyopia participants, aged 20-50 years old.
2. Based on inclusion criteria, there was a minimum of 2 lines difference in BCVA between the 2 eyes.
3. An amblyogenic factor and history of amblyopia treatment was recorded

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Unstable vital sign
2. History of brain injury and/or head trauma
3. Neurological and psychiatric disease
4. Seizures or family history of seizure
5. Pregnancy
6. Uncontrolled migraine or the presence of metallic implants or shunt in the head or torso
7. Wide region of ischemic cicatrix, multiple sclerosis, taking tricycle antidepressants,
8. Analgesics or any drugs may decrease the threshold for inducing seizure
9. Experienced sleep disorders during the rTMS treatment
10. Severe alcoholism or taking seizure drugs
11. Severe heart diseases or uncontrollable migraine caused by high intracranial pressure

Where this trial is running

Taipei County

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 AmblyopiaTranscranial magnetic stimulationNeuroplasticity
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.