The Use of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in Adults With Developmental Disabilities (NCT04732052) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
The Use of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in Adults With Developmental Disabilities
Canada60 participantsStarted 2022-09-01
Plain-language summary
Aggressive behaviours are highly prevalent among people with developmental disabilities, both in community and inpatient or residential settings, with adverse consequences for the individuals involved and others. Some predictive factors, particularly impulsivity, are dynamic with neurobiological underpinnings, and as such amenable to change or neuromodulation using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques. With this in mind, we designed an experimental protocol to determine the efficacy of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) as a non-invasive brain stimulation technique to reduce impulsivity and aggression associated with developmental disability.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Adults aged 18-64 years
* Diagnosis of a developmental disability
* History of one or more incidents of aggression in the last month
* Consent to participate in the trial by the individual or their Substitute Decision Maker
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of epilepsy or seizures
* History of acquired brain injury
* Having metal in the brain/skull, e.g. splinters, fragments or clips
* Having a cochlear implant
* Having an implanted neuro-stimulator (e.g. direct brain stimulation, epidural/subdural stimulation, vagal nerve stimulation)
* History of brain surgery of procedure
* History of severe adverse reaction to tDCS
* Having a cardiac pacemaker or intracardiac lines
* Current alcohol or drug misuse
* Having a sensitive scalp
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Aggression
Timeframe: change from baseline one week and one month after the third tDCS session