TMS + D-Cycloserine for Fibromyalgia
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new treatment for fibromyalgia using magnetic brain stimulation combined with a medication. It aims to help adults with fibromyalgia who haven't found relief from other treatments. The treatment works by using magnets to change brain activity and the medication to boost this effect.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that you have not changed your dose or started any new psychotropic medications in the 4 weeks before joining. Additionally, you cannot be taking benzodiazepines, cyclopyrrolones, gabapentin/pregabalin, anticonvulsants, ethionamide, or isoniazid.
Is the combination of TMS and D-Cycloserine safe for humans?
How is the iTBS-DCS treatment different from other fibromyalgia treatments?
The iTBS-DCS treatment combines intermittent theta-burst stimulation (a type of brain stimulation) with D-Cycloserine (a medication that can enhance brain plasticity), offering a novel approach that may improve pain and quality of life in fibromyalgia patients by potentially enhancing the effects of brain stimulation.23467
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment iTBS-DCS for fibromyalgia?
Research shows that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can reduce pain in fibromyalgia patients, with one study finding a 29% reduction in pain after TMS sessions. Additionally, intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS), a form of TMS, has been effective in reducing neuropathic pain, suggesting potential benefits for fibromyalgia as well.278910
Who Is on the Research Team?
Alexander McGirr, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Calgary
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Adults aged 18-65 with fibromyalgia, who haven't responded to certain medications or therapy, can join this trial. They must score ≥41 on the FIQR, have normal recent blood work, and not be on new psychotropic meds for the last month. Pregnant individuals or those at significant risk of harm are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive 4 weeks of rTMS treatment with either D-Cycloserine or placebo, with daily capsule ingestion and 20 TMS sessions.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, with assessments of clinical symptoms, cognitive function, and imaging.
Extension
Optional continuation of monitoring and assessment to compare treatment effects with healthy controls.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- iTBS-DCS
iTBS-DCS is already approved in United States, Canada for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Calgary
Lead Sponsor