Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Borderline Personality Disorder

(ClinicalBPD Trial)

This trial tests the effectiveness of brain stimulation, specifically repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), in alleviating symptoms of borderline personality disorder (BPD). Participants will receive either real or sham (fake) brain stimulation, but all will eventually have the opportunity to try the real treatment. The trial includes several brain scans and treatments over approximately two and a half months. It suits individuals diagnosed with BPD by a psychiatrist who can speak English fluently. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and potentially benefit from an innovative treatment approach.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research shows that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is generally well-tolerated by people with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Studies have found that patients often experience better self-control, improved emotion management, and a more positive mood after treatment. Side effects are usually mild, such as headaches or scalp discomfort, which are common with this type of brain treatment.

Researchers are excited about transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for Borderline Personality Disorder because it offers a non-invasive option that directly targets the brain. Unlike standard treatments like psychotherapy and medications such as mood stabilizers and antidepressants, rTMS uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells, potentially leading to quicker and more targeted improvements in mood and behavior. The unique double-blind setup with active and sham treatments ensures unbiased results, increasing the reliability of the findings. Additionally, participants who initially receive the sham treatment have the opportunity to switch to active treatment, providing all patients with access to potential benefits.

This trial will compare active repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with a sham-controlled condition for individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD). Studies have shown that rTMS is generally well-tolerated by people with BPD. Research suggests that rTMS can help manage symptoms, though more studies are needed to confirm its effectiveness for BPD. In some cases, similar treatments have led to high rates of symptom relief. Early findings indicate that rTMS might effectively target brain areas involved in BPD symptoms. While not all effects are fully understood, previous trials have shown the treatment to be safe for most patients.²³⁶⁷⁸