Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Schizophrenia
(TIES Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores a treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to help individuals with schizophrenia. Researchers aim to determine if rTMS can enhance brain function and cognitive performance by increasing brain inhibition. The trial includes two groups: one receiving active rTMS and the other receiving a sham (fake) version. This study may suit someone diagnosed with schizophrenia who hasn't recently changed their antipsychotic medication and is open to trying new treatments. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and potentially benefit from an innovative treatment approach.
What prior data suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation is safe for people with schizophrenia?
Research has shown that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is safe and well-tolerated for people with schizophrenia. Studies indicate that individuals with schizophrenia do not face a higher risk of side effects, such as seizures, when using rTMS. Reviews have found this non-invasive treatment safe for various mental health conditions. To date, rTMS has been used without major safety concerns, making it a promising option for those considering this treatment.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Most treatments for schizophrenia involve medications that target neurotransmitter imbalances, like antipsychotics that adjust dopamine levels. However, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is unique because it uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain, offering a non-invasive approach. Researchers are excited about rTMS because it could provide rapid symptom relief without the side effects often associated with medications, such as weight gain or sedation. Additionally, the sham rTMS arm in trials helps ensure the effectiveness of the active treatment by providing a comparison, which is vital for understanding its true impact.
What evidence suggests that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation might be an effective treatment for schizophrenia?
This trial will compare the effects of active repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with a sham rTMS treatment. Studies have shown that rTMS can help treat negative symptoms of schizophrenia, such as a lack of motivation or emotional expression. Research indicates that active rTMS works better than a sham treatment in reducing these symptoms. Specifically, one study found a noticeable improvement, with a mean difference of 0.47 compared to sham, demonstrating significant symptom reduction. Additionally, rTMS has improved memory and thinking skills in patients with schizophrenia. These findings suggest that rTMS could be a promising treatment option for schizophrenia.23678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Stephanie Hare, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for men and women with schizophrenia who can give informed consent. Participants must have a confirmed diagnosis of schizophrenia as per the DSM-5 criteria.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive 1Hz rTMS or sham rTMS targeting the motor cortex over 5 days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in SICI score, motor cortex functional connectivity, and neurocognitive performance
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation
Trial Overview
The study tests if low-frequency rTMS aimed at the motor cortex can enhance brain inhibition in people with schizophrenia, potentially improving cognitive function and altering brain connectivity.
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Active Control
Placebo Group
multiple trains of active transcranial magnetic stimulation in a day (using the active TMS coil), for multiple days
multiple trains of sham transcranial magnetic stimulation in a day (using the sham comparator TMS coil), for multiple days
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Collaborator
Citations
The effects of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic ...
The primary outcome was the efficacy of high-frequency rTMS group versus control group on negative symptoms in patients diagnosed with ...
Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation ...
Most reviews indicate that rTMS has an effect on negative symptoms, executive function, working memory, and language function in patients with schizophrenia.
Therapeutic Efficacy of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation ...
The primary outcome is improvement in negative symptoms related to schizophrenia. The investigators are focusing on negative symptoms given their greater ...
4.
psychiatrist.com
psychiatrist.com/pcc/effectiveness-repetitive-transcranial-magnetic-stimulation-depression-schizophrenia-obsessive-compulsive-disorder-umbrella-meta-analysis/Effectiveness of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic ...
rTMS was superior to sham in the reduction of negative symptoms of schizophrenia (mean difference [MD]: 0.47; 95% CI, 0.23–0.7; P < .0001).
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS ...
Conclusions: Active rTMS to DLPFC reduces individual variability of brain function in people with schizophrenia. Given that individual ...
Safety of rTMS for Schizophrenia: A Systematic Review ... - PMC
rTMS is safe and well tolerated for people with schizophrenia. Individuals with schizophrenia are not at increased risk for adverse effects, including seizure.
The effects of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic ...
In recent years, several studies have demonstrated that high-frequency rTMS have effect on reducing negative symptoms in schizophrenia patients [14–16].
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for psychiatric ...
Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a safe and non-invasive treatment technique used to treat various psychiatric disorders.
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