~0 spots leftby Jan 2026

Ultrasound Therapy for Impulsivity

Palo Alto (17 mi)
Overseen byMary Phillips, MD, MD
Age: 18 - 65
Sex: Any
Travel: May be covered
Time Reimbursement: Varies
Trial Phase: N/A
Waitlist Available
Sponsor: Mary Phillips, MD MD (Cantab)
No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?The investigators aim to examine the immediate effect of transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) on brain activity and emotions in healthy adults as a first stage toward understanding the predisposing brain mechanisms of underlying substance use disorders.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for healthy adults aged 18-35 with no psychiatric history. Participants must not have a developmental disorder, seizure disorder, substance use disorders (except cannabis), or neurological issues. They should score above 24 on the MMSE and have an IQ estimate over 85. Pregnant individuals, those with visual impairments, metal implants, claustrophobia or left/mixed handedness are excluded.

Treatment Details

The study tests the immediate effects of transcranial focused ultrasound (tFUS) on brain activity and emotions in participants without any mental health conditions. It's a preliminary step to understand brain mechanisms that could predispose people to substance use disorders.
2Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Group I: VS tFUS/Sham tFUSExperimental Treatment2 Interventions
VS tFUS (tFUS applied to the ventral striatum) Sham tFUS (go through the motions of applying tFUS to the VS)
Group II: Sham tFUS/VS tFUSExperimental Treatment2 Interventions
VS tFUS (tFUS applied to the ventral striatum) Sham tFUS (go through the motions of applying tFUS to the VS)

Find a clinic near you

Research locations nearbySelect from list below to view details:
University of Pittsburgh Medical CenterPittsburgh, PA
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Who is running the clinical trial?

Mary Phillips, MD MD (Cantab)Lead Sponsor

References