Caloric Vestibular Stimulation for OCD
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial investigates if using warm or cold water in the ear can help people with obsessive-compulsive disorders better understand their condition by stimulating certain brain areas.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications to join the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but it mentions that there should be no recent change in your psychopharmacological treatment (medications for mental health conditions). This suggests you may need to stay on your current medications without changes.
Is caloric vestibular stimulation safe for humans?
Caloric vestibular stimulation, using either water or air, is generally safe for humans, but it can cause discomfort such as nausea and should be avoided in cases of ear infections or perforated eardrums. Studies have shown it is used safely in both adults and children, although children may find the water test more uncomfortable.12345
How is Caloric Vestibular Stimulation treatment different from other OCD treatments?
Caloric Vestibular Stimulation is unique because it involves using temperature changes in the ear canal to stimulate the vestibular system, which is different from typical OCD treatments that often involve medication or cognitive-behavioral therapy. This method is traditionally used to assess balance and hearing issues, making its application for OCD novel.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Peter van Roessel, MD, PhD
Principal Investigator
Stanford University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-65 with a primary diagnosis of Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Illness Anxiety Disorder, or Somatic Symptom Disorder. Participants should not have had recent changes in any psychopharmacological treatment and must be able to provide informed consent. Pregnant or nursing women, individuals with substance use issues or certain medical conditions like vertigo 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 unilateral caloric vestibular stimulation with before and after measures of OCRD symptom severity and insight
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in clinical insight using the Brown Assessment of Beliefs Scale
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Caloric Vestibular Stimulation
Caloric Vestibular Stimulation is already approved in European Union, United States for the following indications:
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Stanford University
Lead Sponsor