Brain Stimulation for ADHD
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can assist individuals with ADHD. Researchers aim to determine how varying levels and durations of this gentle electrical stimulation impact brain function and attention. The trial is open to individuals with ADHD who frequently experience focus and attention issues, particularly those not currently on stimulant medication or who can pause it for the study. Healthy volunteers without psychiatric conditions are also needed for comparison.
As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research on ADHD treatment.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
If you are taking stimulant medications, you will need to stop them two days before the experiment, following a doctor's guidance. If you are on non-stimulant medications, your dose must be stable for at least four weeks before joining the trial.
What prior data suggests that this brain stimulation technique is safe for ADHD?
Research has shown that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is generally safe for people with ADHD. Studies have found that tDCS can improve attention and decision-making skills in patients without causing major side effects.
In one study involving young people with ADHD, researchers applied tDCS to the left side of the brain. Participants tolerated the treatment well, even after several sessions. Follow-up results suggested lasting benefits and no major safety issues.
Overall, tDCS appears to be a promising and safe option for treating ADHD symptoms.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) for ADHD because it offers a non-invasive and potentially safer alternative to medications like stimulants. While traditional ADHD treatments often rely on drugs that affect neurotransmitter levels, tDCS uses a gentle electrical current to modulate brain activity directly. This method could reduce common medication side effects and provide a new option for individuals who may not respond well to drugs. The potential for tDCS to offer quick and targeted symptom relief makes it a promising avenue for future ADHD management.
What evidence suggests that tDCS might be an effective treatment for ADHD?
Research has shown that tDCS, a type of brain stimulation, holds promise for treating ADHD. Some studies have found it leads to lasting improvements in ADHD symptoms, particularly in reducing inattention, with a moderate effect on other symptoms. By targeting the brain's frontal areas, tDCS can help improve focus and daily activities. Early research also suggests it may reduce impulsivity in children and teens with ADHD. Participants in this trial will receive tDCS to further evaluate its effectiveness.24678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Joan Camprodon, MD, PhD, MPH
Principal Investigator
Massachusetts General Hospital
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-55 with ADHD, diagnosed per DSM-5 criteria. Participants can be on non-stimulant meds if the dose has been stable for 4 weeks. Those on stimulants must stop them two days before each study visit under a doctor's guidance but may resume between visits.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive anodal tDCS to the left DLPFC to assess cognitive and neurophysiological dose-response relationships
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- tDCS
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Massachusetts General Hospital
Lead Sponsor