Active not recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Targeted Circuit-Based Transcranial Focused Ultrasound Intervention for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder TUS-OCD

This study is looking into a new treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) called transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation (TUS). OCD can cause upsetting thoughts and repetitive actions, and it can significantly impact daily life. TUS is a gentle way to stimulate specific parts of the brain without surgery. Researchers hope to learn if TUS can safely reduce severe OCD symptoms and help people think more flexibly. They will be targeting areas of the brain that are thought to be involved in compulsive behaviours and anxiety. This research aims to find more effective ways to help people living with OCD overcome their challenges.

At a glance

Status

Active not recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Plymouth

Enrolment target

Start

20 Sep 2024

Estimated completion

20 Sep 2026

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

What is this study about?

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, often called OCD, is a condition where people experience unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and feel driven to carry out certain actions repeatedly (compulsions). These can include things like excessive washing, checking, or ordering. OCD can be very disruptive and make everyday life challenging, affecting how people interact with others and enjoy their lives.

Currently, some treatments for OCD exist, but we still need more options that work well for everyone. This study is exploring a new and promising approach called transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation, or TUS. Think of TUS like a very precise, gentle sound wave that can reach specific areas of the brain. These sound waves are not like the loud ones we hear; they are focused and used to influence brain activity in a very targeted way. The idea is that by gently stimulating certain brain regions linked to OCD, we might be able to help reduce the symptoms.

Researchers believe that OCD involves particular brain areas, including those involved in forming habits and controlling thoughts and emotions. TUS can reach these areas with great accuracy. In this study, scientists will be testing the safety of TUS and how well it works to lessen OCD symptoms by targeting different brain regions. The goal is to see if this new technique can offer a more effective and comprehensive treatment option for those living with OCD.

Key takeaways

This study explores a new, non-invasive brain stimulation for OCD.
It uses focused ultrasound (TUS) to target specific brain areas.
The goal is to assess the safety and effectiveness of TUS in reducing OCD symptoms.
Participants need to be 21-55 years old and meet specific health criteria.
The study involves six appointments and close monitoring.
There's no guarantee of personal benefit, but your participation helps advance understanding of OCD treatments.

Who may be eligible?

To be part of this study, you need to be a man or woman aged between 21 and 55, and be able to speak English fluently. You will also need to have a certain level of OCD symptoms, as measured by a questionnaire, and be willing to attend all six study appointments.

There are several reasons why you might not be able to participate. For example, if you've had a serious head injury or brain surgery, or if you or a close family member has a history of epilepsy or seizures, this study wouldn't be suitable. You also can't take part if you have other serious mental health conditions or have had problems with similar non-invasive brain treatments before. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant during the study, or have certain metal implants in your body (like a pacemaker), you also won't be able to join.

Additionally, factors like recent serious head trauma, certain medications that affect your brain or increase risks, regular use of recreational drugs or high alcohol intake in the 24 hours before a session, or serious health issues that your doctor thinks might interfere with the study, would mean you can't participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 21 and 55 years old?
Do you speak fluent English?
Do you have OCD symptoms?
Do you have a history of serious head injury or brain surgery?
Do you have a pacemaker or other metal implants in your body?
Are you pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will have a total of six appointments. During these visits, the researchers will use the focused ultrasound device to gently stimulate specific areas of your brain. Each session will involve careful assessments to monitor your OCD symptoms and cognitive flexibility to see how the treatment might be affecting you. You won't be expected to take any specific medication as part of the study, but it's important to discuss any current medications you are on with the research team. The entire study will involve careful monitoring by the research team.

Potential risks and benefits

While we hope this study may offer some benefits by exploring a new way to reduce OCD symptoms, there’s no guarantee that you will personally feel better. Potential risks are generally mild, such as temporary skin sensitivity at the stimulation site or ringing in the ears, but the researchers will closely monitor you for any side effects. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting your medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Health
Verified postcode
Plymouth, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)?

OCD is a condition where people experience unwanted thoughts (obsessions) and feel driven to repeat certain actions (compulsions), which can significantly affect their daily life.

What is transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation (TUS)?

TUS is a new, gentle way to stimulate specific parts of the brain using precise sound waves, without needing surgery. It aims to influence brain activity in targeted areas.

Will I feel anything during the TUS treatment?

The stimulation is designed to be gentle. You might feel a mild sensation on your head or hear some faint sounds, but the researchers will explain what to expect.

Is TUS painful?

TUS is generally not considered painful. Any sensations you might feel are typically very mild and temporary.

How long will the study appointments take?

The information doesn't specify the exact duration of each visit, but it mentions you'll have six appointments. The research team will be able to give you more details on timing.