Using TMS to enhance behavioral therapy for Tourette Syndrome

Strengthening Tourette Treatment OPtions Using TMS to Improve CBIT, a Double-blind, Randomized, Controlled Study

NA · West Virginia University · NCT05705999

This study is testing if adding a brain stimulation treatment to behavioral therapy can help adults with Tourette Syndrome reduce their tics more effectively.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorWest Virginia University (other)
Locations1 site (Morgantown, West Virginia)
Trial IDNCT05705999 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This pilot study investigates the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) combined with comprehensive behavioral intervention for tics (CBIT) in adults with Tourette Syndrome. Participants with moderate tic severity will be randomly assigned to receive either active or sham rTMS targeting the supplementary motor area, followed by eight sessions of CBIT. The study aims to measure changes in tic frequency and severity, as well as neurophysiological changes, comparing outcomes between the two groups. The hypothesis is that rTMS will enhance the effectiveness of CBIT by positively influencing the SMA network.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with Tourette Syndrome and exhibiting moderate tic severity.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to rTMS, such as those with metallic implants or a history of seizures, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve tic management for patients with Tourette Syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies using rTMS for neurological conditions have shown promising results.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 years or older
* Diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome
* Moderate Tic Severity at baseline

Exclusion Criteria:

* Presence of metallic objects or neurostimulators in the brain
* Pregnancy
* History of active seizures or epilepsy
* Contraindications to receiving fMRI
* Inability to participate in CBIT due to other underlying cognitive or medical condition

Where this trial is running

Morgantown, West Virginia

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Tourette Syndrome, Comprehensive Behavioral Intervention for Tics, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.