tDCS & Auditory Hallucinations in Schizophrenia

tDCS & Auditory Hallucinations in Schizophrenia (AVH-SZ)

The aim of this study is to evaluate tDCS effects on schizophrenia symptoms, particularly on auditory verbal hallucinations. tDCS applied with cathodal (inhibitory) electrode over the left temporal parietal junction and anodal (excitatory) electrode over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Ages 18-60
• Primary diagnosis of Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, fifth edition, schizophrenia
• Persistent auditory verbal hallucinations
• Right handed
• Under stable doses of antipsychotic medication for ≥4 weeks
• Normal hearing by self-report and physical exam
• Use of effective method of birth control for women of childbearing capacity
• Capable to provide informed consent. For patients judged to be incapable to provide informed consent the legal guardian of the patient must agree to participation in the study and provide signed informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Current or past history of substance dependence or abuse (excluding nicotine)
• Other current Axis I disorders
• History of seizure, epilepsy in self or first degree relatives, stoke, brain surgery, head injury, intracranial metal implants, known structural brain lesion, devices that may be affected by tDCS (pacemaker, medication pump, cochlear implant, implanted brain stimulator)
• Frequent and persistent migraines
• History of adverse reaction to neurostimulation
• Participation in study of investigational medication within 6 weeks
• Pregnancy
• Women who are breast-feeding
• Current significant laboratory abnormality