TMS for Alcohol Consumption
(TAM Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how the brain responds to emotions and social situations and whether these responses link to alcohol consumption. Researchers use transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a non-invasive brain treatment, to observe its effects on brain activity. Participants will attend three visits, including MRI scans and TMS sessions. Individuals who regularly drink alcohol or drink little to none, live in the Auburn/Opelika area, and are 19 or older are encouraged to join. As an unphased study, this trial offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research on brain activity and alcohol consumption.
Do I need to stop my current medications to join the trial?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop your current medications, but you cannot participate if you are taking medications that lower the seizure threshold (make seizures more likely).
What prior data suggests that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is safe?
Research shows that Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is generally safe. TMS is a non-invasive method using magnetic fields to stimulate brain cells. Studies have found it can help with conditions like depression and alcohol use disorder.
Most people experience few side effects. Occasionally, mild discomfort at the treatment site or a headache may occur, but these usually resolve quickly. Serious side effects are rare. Since TMS doesn't involve surgery or medication, it avoids many common side effects associated with those treatments.
In some studies, TMS has reduced alcohol cravings and helped with alcohol dependence. These studies support its safe use, with no major issues reported. Prospective trial participants should discuss any concerns with the study team.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for alcohol consumption because it offers a unique, non-invasive approach to treatment. Unlike traditional methods like medication or behavioral therapy, TMS targets specific brain regions using magnetic fields to potentially reduce cravings and alter addictive behaviors. The TMS A arm applies high-frequency stimulation, which might boost activity in areas linked to impulse control, while the TMS B arm uses low-frequency stimulation, possibly reducing overactivity associated with addiction. This innovative approach could provide new hope for individuals struggling with alcohol use, offering a different pathway for managing their condition.
What evidence suggests that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is effective for influencing brain engagement related to alcohol consumption?
Research has shown that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may help treat alcohol use disorder. This trial will compare two different TMS approaches: TMS A and TMS B. Studies have found that repeated TMS sessions can lower alcohol cravings and consumption. Strong evidence supports TMS for managing various conditions, including alcohol-related issues. However, results can vary, with some studies showing mixed outcomes regarding cravings and impulsivity. Overall, TMS appears to be a promising tool for those facing challenges with alcohol use.13678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Samantha J Fede, PhD
Principal Investigator
Principal Investigator
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This study is for adults aged 19 or older in the Auburn/Opelika area. It includes two groups: those who drink alcohol frequently (4 or more drinks at least twice a month for women, 5 or more for men) and those who rarely drink. Participants must be able to undergo MRI scans and TMS sessions without health risks.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants undergo an MRI scan and answer survey questions
Treatment
Participants receive TMS sessions followed by MRI scans
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in attention and brain activity
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Trial Overview
The trial investigates how attention affects brain activity related to emotions and social understanding, especially in relation to alcohol consumption. It involves three visits over a month with MRIs and non-invasive brain stimulation called TMS.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Active Control
TMS administered over right frontal eye field at 10 Hz, 110% of MT, 60 x 5 sec trains, 25 sec ITI
TMS administered over right frontal eye field at 1 Hz, 110% of MT, 7 x 225 sec trains, 30 sec ITI
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is already approved in United States, European Union for the following indications:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Migraine Headache Symptoms
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Auburn University
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA)
Collaborator
Citations
Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Efficacy in ...
Solfanelli, et al. Efficacy of add-on deep transcranial magnetic stimulation in comorbid alcohol dependence and dysthymic disorder: Three case ...
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation in Alcohol Use Disorder ...
Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) has shown positive results in reducing depressive symp- ... favorable results, although the ...
Intermittent Theta Burst for the Treatment of Alcohol Use ...
iTBS has demonstrated equivalent efficacy and safety to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation employing 10Hz stimulation protocols in treatment of ...
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for alcohol use ...
There is significant and growing evidence for the clinical efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for the treatment of many ...
Trans-cranial Magnetic Stimulation in Treatment of Alcohol ...
Overall, studies using TMS for the treatment of AUD show mixed results in changes in craving, impulsivity, and alcohol intake.
Theta Burst Stimulation as a Tool to Decrease Drinking in ...
The results of this study will be used to determine which of the 2 proposed TMS strategies has a larger effect on drinking behavior (% days abstinent, % heavy ...
A systematic review and meta-analysis of neuromodulation ...
Ninety-four studies were identified that examined the effects of rTMS, tDCS, and DBS on substance use outcomes (eg, craving, consumption, and relapse)
A Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled Proof-of- ...
We provide initial proof-of-concept for dTMS targeting midline frontocortical structures as a treatment for alcohol addiction.
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