Brain Stimulation for Schizophrenia

This trial explores new ways to treat schizophrenia, a challenging mental health condition marked by delusions, hallucinations, and cognitive issues. Researchers are testing whether connectivity-guided theta burst brain stimulation (TBS) can improve brain function in people with schizophrenia by targeting the hippocampus, an area involved in the disorder. The trial will compare active brain stimulation with sham (inactive) stimulation to determine if the real treatment makes a difference. The study seeks participants diagnosed with schizophrenia or related disorders who do not have major neurological issues other than epilepsy. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that could lead to new treatment options for schizophrenia.

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 has shown that theta burst stimulation (TBS) can be a safe treatment for schizophrenia, though some risks exist. For TBS using direct electrical stimulation, studies have not identified major safety issues, but detailed information remains limited.

In contrast, TBS using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has occasionally led to serious side effects, such as mania (very high energy or mood) and psychosis (difficulty distinguishing reality), which might be related to the treatment. However, these side effects are rare, and most patients tolerate this type of brain stimulation well.

Researchers are excited about these treatments for schizophrenia because they use innovative brain stimulation techniques that could offer new hope for patients. Unlike typical antipsychotic medications, which often target neurotransmitters like dopamine, connectivity-guided theta burst brain stimulation (TBS) directly targets brain circuits involved in the condition. This trial explores both invasive and noninvasive methods: direct electrical stimulation through intracranial electrodes and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) that offers a noninvasive alternative. These approaches aim to modulate brain activity more precisely and potentially provide faster relief from symptoms compared to traditional medications.

Studies have shown that theta burst stimulation (TBS) could be a promising way to treat symptoms of schizophrenia. In this trial, participants may receive either direct electrical stimulation or transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) using a theta burst pattern. Research indicates that both methods effectively manage symptoms like hallucinations and thinking problems. Some findings suggest that TBS can specifically target brain areas involved in these symptoms, potentially improving patient outcomes. Additionally, faster TBS with personalized targeting has effectively reduced negative symptoms, which are often hard to treat. While some side effects, such as mania and psychosis, have been noted, these treatments are generally considered safe and acceptable.²⁴⁶⁷⁸