Theta-Burst Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Auditory Hallucinations
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn whether theta-burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (TBS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, can help reduce persistent auditory verbal hallucinations (hearing voices) in adults with psychotic disorders who have not responded adequately to antipsychotic medications.
The main questions it aims to answer are:
* Does theta-burst stimulation reduce the severity of auditory verbal hallucinations?
* Does theta-burst stimulation improve other psychiatric symptoms, including depressive symptoms and insight into illness?
* How well do participants tolerate this treatment, and what side effects do they experience?
All participants will receive active theta-burst stimulation. There is no placebo or comparison group.
Participants will:
* Complete an initial assessment of their mental health, symptoms, and medical history.
* Receive 20 brain stimulation sessions over two consecutive weeks, with two sessions per day on weekdays.
* Complete follow-up assessments approximately one week and one month after treatment to evaluate changes in symptoms and overall functioning.
* Report any side effects experienced during treatment and follow-up.
Who Is on the Research Team?
Stéphane Potvin, PhD
Principal Investigator
Principal Investigator
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or other psychotic disorders who continue to hear voices despite trying antipsychotic medications. Participants must be able to complete mental health assessments and attend daily sessions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Theta-Burst Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TBS)
Trial Overview
The study tests theta-burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (TBS), a non-invasive brain treatment given twice daily over two weeks, to see if it reduces hearing voices in people with persistent symptoms. All participants receive the active treatment.
How Is the Trial Designed?
1
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Participants will receive active theta-burst stimulation (TBS) targeting three brain regions: at the temporoparietal junctions and the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Each treatment session will combine bilateral continuous theta-burst stimulation (cTBS; 900 pulses per hemisphere at 90% of the resting motor threshold) and intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS; 600 pulses at 120% of the resting motor threshold) targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex. Participants will receive two treatment sessions per day over 10 weekdays, for a total of 20 sessions.
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Ciusss de L'Est de l'Île de Montréal
Lead Sponsor
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