Brain Stimulation for Migraine
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study investigates whether unilateral and bilateral non-invasive brain stimulation, given for 20 minutes/once per day for twenty days (M-F) can reduce migraine pain. Fourty patients will receive treatment (20 unilateral treatment, and 20 bilateral treatment), while twenty will receive a "sham" procedure. Another 20 Episodic Migraine patients will be recruited for the observational aim of the study which does not include brain stimulation.
Do I need to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial does not specify if you must stop taking your current medications, but you should be willing to limit the introduction of new treatments and medications during the study period.
Is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) safe for humans?
How does brain stimulation differ from other migraine treatments?
Brain stimulation, specifically transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), is unique because it is a non-invasive technique that modulates brain activity by applying a small electrical current to specific areas of the brain, such as the motor or sensory cortex. Unlike traditional migraine medications, which often have low efficacy and tolerability, tDCS offers a novel approach by targeting the brain's cortical areas directly to reduce migraine frequency and intensity.678910
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment HD-tDCS for migraine?
Research suggests that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), including high-definition tDCS (HD-tDCS), may help reduce migraine pain and frequency. Some studies show it can improve headache severity and influence brain systems related to pain, although results are mixed and more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.6781011
Who Is on the Research Team?
Alexandre Dasilva, DDs,DMedsc
Principal Investigator
University of Michigan
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 18-65 with episodic migraines that began before age 50. Participants should be willing to avoid new treatments during the study and not have a history of neurological disorders, major illnesses, psychiatric conditions, or substance abuse. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline
Baseline visit with MRI and PET session
Treatment
Participants receive HD-tDCS brain stimulation treatments for 20 days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- HD-tDCS Active Protocol
- HD-tDCS Sham Protocol
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Michigan
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Collaborator