tDCS for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether brain stimulation, using a Wireless Multichannel Transcranial Current Stimulator (tDCS), can assist individuals who struggle with skin-picking or nail-biting. Researchers aim to determine if this treatment can reduce the urge to pick or bite when triggered and decrease the frequency of these behaviors. Participants will receive either real brain stimulation or a placebo, and their urges and actions will be compared. This trial suits those who frequently feel the urge to pick their skin or bite their nails, even if the urge is mild. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could lead to new treatment options.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you use certain medications daily that lower the seizure threshold, like clozapine.
What prior data suggests that this brain stimulation technique is safe for reducing skin-picking and nail-biting?
Research has shown that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is safe for treating conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and depression. Participants in these studies generally tolerate tDCS well. Reports suggest it can help reduce OCD symptoms and improve mood in people with depression.
For instance, a review found that tDCS effectively lessens OCD symptoms without causing major side effects. Other studies have examined tDCS in people with major depression and found it safe enough for home use with supervision. This suggests the treatment might be gentle on the body.
Since this trial lacks a specific phase, it's important to note that phase information usually helps determine the amount of safety data available. However, the fact that tDCS has already been studied for other conditions supports its safety. Overall, tDCS appears to be a promising and safe option for many people.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard treatments for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, which often involve medication or cognitive behavioral therapy, transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) offers a non-invasive and drug-free alternative. Researchers are excited about tDCS because it uses a wireless multichannel device to deliver targeted electrical currents to specific brain areas, like the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. This approach may modulate brain activity in a way that could quickly reduce OCD symptoms with fewer side effects. Plus, the ability to administer tDCS wirelessly makes it a flexible option that could potentially be used in various settings.
What evidence suggests that this brain stimulation technique is effective for reducing skin-picking and nail-biting?
Research has shown that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can help reduce symptoms in people with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In some studies, participants who received real tDCS treatment experienced a noticeable decrease in OCD symptoms compared to those who received a placebo. This trial will provide either active multifocal tDCS or sham multifocal tDCS to participants. For instance, after ten sessions of tDCS, participants reported significant relief from their symptoms. However, some reviews suggest that while tDCS appears promising, larger studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness. Despite this, early results indicate that tDCS could be a useful tool for reducing unwanted urges and behaviors, such as skin-picking and nail-biting.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Gopalkumar Rakesh, MD
Principal Investigator
University of Kentucky
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who frequently feel the urge to pick their skin or bite their nails, possibly due to Stinging Sensitivity Syndrome or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder. Participants will discuss mental health issues and undergo situations that trigger these urges.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive 13 minutes of active or sham tDCS targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in picking or biting behaviors and subjective urges and distress
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Wireless Multichannel Transcranial Current Stimulator (tDCS)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Gopalkumar Rakesh
Lead Sponsor