Using sound during sleep to help reduce PTSD nightmares
Augmentation of Imagery Rehearsal Therapy With Targeted Memory Reactivation for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
This study is testing if using a specific sound during sleep can help people with PTSD have fewer nightmares and feel better overall when combined with a therapy that focuses on positive imagery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Geneva Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Geneva) |
| Trial ID | NCT05933109 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of targeted memory reactivation (TMR) combined with Imagery Rehearsal Therapy (IRT) to alleviate nightmares and PTSD symptoms. Participants with untreated persistent PTSD will engage in IRT sessions to create positive imagery related to their nightmares, while half will also be exposed to a specific sound during REM sleep to enhance memory consolidation. The study will evaluate the severity of PTSD and nightmares before and after the intervention, with follow-ups at one and three months. The approach aims to leverage sleep stages to improve therapeutic outcomes for patients suffering from chronic nightmares.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with untreated persistent PTSD and chronic nightmares who are not currently receiving specific treatment for PTSD.
Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing active treatment for PTSD or those with neurological disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the frequency and severity of nightmares and PTSD symptoms in affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of TMR is a relatively novel approach, previous studies have shown promise in using similar techniques for memory enhancement and PTSD treatment.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * with untreated persistent PTSD according to DSM-5 (\> 1 month), suffering from chronic nightmares * with no active specific treatment for PTSD Exclusion Criteria: * patients with active specific treatment for PTSD * patients with neurological disorders
Where this trial is running
Geneva
- Center for Sleep Medicine — Geneva, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Lampros Perogamvros
- Email: lampros.perogamvros@hcuge.ch
- Phone: +41223729952
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.