HabitAware Keen2 for Trichotillomania
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how the HabitAware Keen2 wrist device can assist individuals with trichotillomania, a condition characterized by a strong urge to pull out hair. The Keen2 device alerts users when they begin pulling their hair, aiming to increase awareness and reduce automatic pulling behaviors. The study aims to determine if this increased awareness can also decrease overall hair-pulling severity and improve related mental health symptoms. Individuals diagnosed with trichotillomania who experience automatic hair-pulling behaviors may be suitable for this trial. Participants must wear the device for four weeks and attend three study visits. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to understanding and potentially improving management strategies for trichotillomania.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
You can continue taking your current psychiatric medications if you have been on a stable dose for at least 8 weeks before joining the trial.
What prior data suggests that the HabitAware Keen2 device is safe for use in trichotillomania?
Research has shown that the HabitAware Keen2 wrist device may assist people with trichotillomania, a condition where individuals pull out their hair. The device alerts users when they start pulling their hair, increasing their awareness of the habit.
Studies have found that similar devices can reduce the severity of hair-pulling behaviors. The HabitAware Keen2 is non-invasive, meaning it doesn't enter the body or use medication, which generally enhances its safety.
No serious safety issues have been reported with its use. The device includes safety features, such as controlled charging to prevent overheating, indicating that users generally tolerate the Keen2 well.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike traditional treatments for trichotillomania that often involve therapy or medication, the HabitAware Keen2 offers a unique approach by using a wearable device. This wristband is designed to alert users when they start pulling their hair, helping them become more aware of the behavior in real time. Researchers are excited about this device because it empowers individuals with immediate feedback and promotes self-regulation, potentially offering a non-invasive and medication-free option for managing the condition.
What evidence suggests that the HabitAware Keen2 is effective for trichotillomania?
Research has shown that the HabitAware Keen2 device may assist people with trichotillomania, a condition characterized by the urge to pull out hair. In this trial, participants will use the Keen2 bracelet, which can reduce hair-pulling by increasing user awareness. A small trial demonstrated that participants significantly reduced hair-pulling behaviors while using the device. The Keen2 bracelet alerts wearers when they start pulling their hair, enhancing their awareness of these actions. This increased awareness is crucial in reducing automatic pulling and improving the overall condition.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Joseph McGuire, PhD
Principal Investigator
Johns Hopkins University
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with Trichotillomania (TTM), who can wear the Keen2 device for four weeks and attend three study visits. Participants should have a stable dose of psychiatric medication, if any, speak English, and score high enough on specific tests measuring TTM severity.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants use the Keen 2 device to increase awareness of hair pulling behaviors
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in hair pulling severity and related psychiatric symptoms
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- HabitAware Keen2
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Johns Hopkins University
Lead Sponsor