Veteran &
Stimulant Use
Research Study
Researchers at the Palo Alto VA Medical Center are conducting a study on a possible new treatment for stimulant addiction in U.S. Veterans ages 18–65. rTMS is a form of non-invasive brain stimulation that was FDA-cleared for treating depression in 2008 and has been used in clinics since. The study is testing to see if rTMS can also be used to help Veterans stop using stimulants.
Fast Facts
U.S. Veterans between 18-65 years old
Use stimulants and want to quit
Compensation
up to $280
Conducted in
Palo Alto, CA
Additional Information
Researchers want to learn whether rTMS may be an effective treatment for Veterans with stimulant use disorder, including addiction to methamphetamine, amphetamine, or cocaine.
- A non-invasive treatment that has been FDA-cleared to treat depression since 2008.
- Uses a device placed against the head to deliver magnetic pulses that stimulate specific areas of the brain.
- We want to learn whether this treatment can help Veterans reduce or stop their stimulant use.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- U.S. Veterans between 18-65 years old
- Used stimulants (ex., methamphetamine/amphetamine or cocaine) in the past 8 weeks
- Want to stop or reduce stimulant use
- Not abusing substances other than stimulants
- No seizure disorders or implanted medical devices in the head or neck area
- Not pregnant or lactating female
- Complete a phone screening and clinical assessment before starting treatment.
- Attend 30 brief rTMS sessions at the Palo Alto VA over 2–3 weeks, Monday through Friday.
- Receive either active rTMS or a placebo (sham) treatment during the study. Each session lasts about 5 minutes, with hour-long breaks between sessions.
- Complete urine testing during the in-person study visits.
- Complete follow-up clinical assessment calls once a month for 3 months after the rTMS sessions.
- If you receive the placebo treatment, you may have the option to receive active rTMS after completing the study procedures.
Participants can receive $280 for completing the study. An additional $120 is available for completing optional MRI scans. Travel expenses to and from the Palo Alto VA may also be reimbursed.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.