Deep TMS for Alcoholism

This trial aims to determine if Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS), which uses magnetic fields, can assist individuals with moderate to severe alcohol use disorder (AUD). Participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving the actual treatment and the other a sham (inactive) version. The study will monitor changes in drinking habits over six months. It seeks individuals who have experienced at least 24 heavy drinking days in the past 90 days and wish to reduce or quit drinking. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and potentially benefit from an innovative treatment.

The trial requires that you have not started certain medications that affect alcohol consumption, like naltrexone or disulfiram, within 30 days before screening. If you're already on these medications, you might need to stop them to participate.

Research has shown that Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) is under study as a treatment for Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). Some studies have found it can help reduce the urge to drink and lower alcohol consumption. Importantly, these studies reported that patients generally tolerated Deep TMS well.

In one study, participants experienced minimal side effects, mostly mild headaches that resolved on their own. Another study found that Deep TMS did not cause any serious health problems. While not yet approved by the FDA specifically for AUD, Deep TMS has shown promising signs of safety in early research.

Researchers are excited about Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) for alcoholism because it offers a non-invasive, brain-focused approach to treatment. Unlike current standard options like medication or behavioral therapy, Deep TMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in addiction and cravings. This method could provide a new avenue for reducing alcohol dependence without the side effects often associated with medications. Moreover, it's quick and easy to administer, potentially offering faster results and improving patient compliance.

Research has shown that Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (Deep TMS) can reduce the urge to drink and the amount of alcohol consumed by people with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). In this trial, participants in the treatment group will receive active Deep TMS treatment. One study found that participants who received real Deep TMS treatment had much lower craving scores than those who did not. Another study demonstrated that Deep TMS significantly reduced alcohol use after treatment. These encouraging results suggest that Deep TMS could effectively manage alcohol addiction by lowering both cravings and drinking.¹⁵⁶⁷⁸