Transcranial magnetic stimulation for treatment of attention in ADHD

Summary

The aim of this study is to see if a 4 week treatment course of brain stimulation (transcranial magnetic stimulation; TMS) can improve attention and behaviour in children with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

ADHD can have many symptoms with attention being a common problem. Stimulant treatment can improve attention in many children, but some only have partial improvement and others can't tolerate medications. A promising and alternative option for reducing ADHD symptoms is non-invasive brain stimulation. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a form of non-invasive brain stimulation that involves the application of a magnetic field to the skull to change the behaviour and function of underlying brain areas.

Eligibility

Currently recruiting participants: Yes

Eligible ages: 9 to 15

Inclusion criteria:

Inclusion Criteria:
(1) Diagnosis of ADHD.
(2) 9-15 years old;
(3) English fluency (to enable consent);
(4) Either taking no medication or taking either one stimulant medication with no changes for past 3 months.
(5) Ongoing symptoms of ADHD.

Exclusion criteria:

Exclusion Criteria:
(1) Severe mental health conditions, neurologic illness or injury such as epilepsy or autism.
(2) Impediments to TMS or MRI (such as metal implants in body);
(3) Prior electroconvulsive therapy or vagus nerve stimulation.

Participate

Fill out the following form if you want to participate in this research

Method of contact

Additional information

Contact information

Contact research team at Brainkids@ucalgary.ca

Principal investigator:

Kara Murias

Clinical trial:

Yes

REB-ID:

REB20-1415

External links

Brain Kids website