Using theta burst stimulation to improve motor function in Tourette Syndrome

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 aims to explore the effects of intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) on the motor system in patients with Tourette Syndrome (TS). By utilizing a sham-controlled protocol, the researchers will modulate the output of the pre-supplementary motor area (pre-SMA) to enhance inhibitory control in the motor system. The study focuses on participants aged 10-21 years who have a confirmed diagnosis of TS and are clinically stable. The non-invasive nature of TMS allows for a quick stimulation process, potentially leading to improved motor function in TS patients.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

Participants of any sex, race, or ethnicity meeting all criteria listed below will be included in the study:

1. Aged 10-21 years
2. Fluent in English
3. DSM-5 diagnosis of TS, confirmed by the clinical team
4. Able to participate in the informed consent process, provide voluntary informed consent/assent and provide a spontaneous narrative description of the key elements of the study.
5. Clinical stability: determined by a physician, no switch of psychotropic medications or increase in dosage in the last 14 days from TMS treatment start; no change in other therapeutic interventions in last 14 days from TMS treatment start.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Any neurodevelopmental, psychiatric condition other than TS, ADHD, or OCD, or mild anxiety based on review of K-SADS. Note - if an exclusionary psychiatric diagnosis is suspected based on K-SADS, the research physician will follow up with the parent and referral will be made to psychology or psychiatry as appropriate.
2. Presence of metallic foreign bodies or implanted medical devices.
3. Not meeting inclusion criteria as described above
4. Non-fluency in English, as English is the language in the validated clinical questionnaires, and the participant must be able to understand real-time instructions from the study staff

Where it's running

• Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center
  Cincinnati, Ohio, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Molly Griffith
• Email: molly.griffith@cchmc.org
• Phone: 513-636-9669

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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.