Neurofeedback for Anorexia Nervosa
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines how neurofeedback, which provides real-time feedback on brain activity, can assist individuals with anorexia nervosa (AN) and atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN) in managing stress and altering behaviors related to food restriction and body image. By understanding the brain's response to stress, researchers aim to develop new treatments for these eating disorders. Participants may be suitable if they have been diagnosed with AN or AAN, experience significant weight concerns or body image issues, and are willing to participate in brain activity feedback sessions using the Negative Affect Task. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could lead to innovative treatments for eating disorders.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but if you are a healthy control, you cannot be on psychiatric medications like SSRIs or antipsychotics. For those with anorexia nervosa or atypical anorexia nervosa, the protocol does not mention medication restrictions.
What prior data suggests that this neurofeedback method is safe for treating anorexia nervosa?
Research shows that the Negative Affect Task, used in treating anorexia nervosa, examines how emotions and stress influence eating habits. Studies indicate that negative feelings often rise before episodes of lost eating control but tend to decrease afterward. Specific safety information on the Negative Affect Task itself is not available. Since this trial is in a "Not Applicable" phase, the focus is on understanding how the treatment works rather than proving its safety, suggesting limited safety information. Participants should consider this when deciding whether to join the trial.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Negative Affect Task for anorexia nervosa because it offers a fresh approach to treatment by using neurofeedback to target emotional regulation. Unlike standard treatments like therapy and medication, which focus primarily on eating behaviors and weight gain, this method aims to directly address the emotional triggers that contribute to the disorder. By using real-time feedback to help patients manage negative emotions, this approach could provide a more holistic and potentially faster path to recovery, making it a promising option for those who struggle with traditional treatments.
What evidence suggests that this neurofeedback method is effective for anorexia nervosa?
Research shows that people with anorexia nervosa (AN) often struggle with decision-making, particularly when underweight. Studies also find that negative emotions can exacerbate these decision-making difficulties. Teenagers with AN tend to fixate on thoughts about food when feeling upset. Additionally, negative emotions can impair their ability to remember and process information. These findings suggest that addressing negative emotions, such as through the Negative Affect Task studied in this trial, could enhance decision-making and coping skills in people with AN.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Guido Frank, MD
Principal Investigator
University of California, San Diego
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals aged 18-45 with Anorexia Nervosa or Atypical Anorexia, who are right-handed (EHI-R LQ > +200), speak English primarily, and women must have a regular menstrual cycle. Excluded are those with psychiatric disorders, substance abuse issues, medical conditions affecting eating/weight, pregnancy/breastfeeding in the last 3 months, contraindications to MRI, or significant head trauma.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Study Days
Participants undergo fMRI during tasks for neurofeedback-reward learning and body size estimation on two study days, one week apart
Assessment
Participants are assessed for positive and negative affect and how it affects food intake before and after each scan, and in the week between scans
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after the study days
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Negative Affect Task
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of California, San Diego
Lead Sponsor