Using magnetic stimulation to reduce cravings in internet gaming disorder
The Effect of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation of the Left Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex in Internet Gaming Disorder
This study is testing whether a type of magnetic brain stimulation can help people with internet gaming disorder reduce their cravings for gaming.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 35 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 30 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Beijing Normal University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Zhenjiang, Jiangsu and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06634498 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of navigated repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on craving regulation in individuals diagnosed with internet gaming disorder (IGD). Participants will undergo both real and sham rTMS targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) to assess changes in craving intensity and regulation capacity. The study employs a randomized crossover design over three weeks, measuring cognitive and neural outcomes associated with addiction. The aim is to explore the potential neural mechanisms that underlie the effects of rTMS on gaming cravings.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with internet gaming disorder who spend over 20 hours per week gaming and meet specific psychological criteria.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of substance use, psychiatric or neurological illnesses, or those currently on psychotropic medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly reduce cravings and improve the ability to regulate cravings in individuals with internet gaming disorder.
How similar studies have performed: While rTMS has shown promise in reducing cravings for substance addiction, this specific application for internet gaming disorder is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * DSM-V gaming disorder \>5 and scored ≥ 50 on a revised version of Young's online Internet addiction test； * spent more than 50% of their online time gaming； * engagement in one of four popular Internet game (Arena of Valor,Genshine, LOL, FPS) for over 20 hours per week for at least 1 year. Exclusion Criteria: * current or history of use of illegal substances and gambling; * current or history of psychiatric or neurological illness; * current use of psychotropic medications; * cognitive impairment as assessed by the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview； * surgery, head trauma or heart related diseases in the past year； * a history of epilepsy or seizures or increased risk of seizures for any reason； * metal implants or tattoos of the neck or head； * claustrophobia.
Where this trial is running
Zhenjiang, Jiangsu and 1 other locations
- Medical Ethics Committee of Zhenjiang Mental Health Center — Zhenjiang, Jiangsu, China (Recruiting)
- State Key Laboratory of Cognitive Neuroscience and Learning — Beijing, China (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jin-Tao Zhang, Phd — Beijing Normal University
- Study coordinator: Jin-Tao Zhang, Phd
- Email: zhangjintao@bnu.edu.cn
- Phone: 15010233046
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.