Stopped: The study was terminated because the dense treatment schedule precluded successful recruitment of study participants.
Purpose: Using transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), we will study whether tACS induces changes in prefrontal alpha oscillatory frequencies in women with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and whether tACS effects on alpha oscillations varies by menstrual cycle phase. An exploratory objective is to assess whether there are any changes in symptom severity during the menstrual cycle phase in which tACS is delivered relative to their baseline symptom levels (determined in a diagnostic feeder study, see below). Participants: Women between ages 18-52 with a diagnosis of PMDD confirmed by participation in a PMDD diagnostic study (IRB# 05-3000). Procedures (methods): After a re-screening and consent appointment, eligible participants will alert the study staff when they begin menstruating. Participants will have their first session in either the follicular phase or luteal phase (determined by ovulation testing) of their menstrual cycle and the second session in the other cycle phase. The order of phase at first testing will be counterbalanced across participants. Each session will consist of 40 minutes of tACS with by an EEG recording before and after stimulation. Patients' symptoms will be assessed at the end of each session and with the daily mood ratings collected throughout the menstrual cycle that coincides with tACS sessions (approximately 26 - 32 days).
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Change in Alpha Frequency Electrical Activity in Left Frontal Cortex Following Stimulation
Timeframe: 8-minute recording before vs after intervention