Individualized Neuromodulation Intervention Techniques for the Core Clinical Features of Drug Addiction
Individualized Neuromodulation Intervention Techniques for the Core Clinical Features of Drug Addiction
Using specific EEG biomarkers in methamphetamine-dependent individuals, this study systematically probes the effect of closed-loop tACS based on brain states
Methamphetamine use disorder (MUD) addiction represents a severe public health concern. Individuals addicted to methamphetamine exhibit intense cravings and physiological reactions when exposed to addiction-related cues, a phenomenon termed "cue reactivity." Cue reactivity is a critical factor in the development and persistence of addiction. Impairments in inhibitory control are considered a significant factor contributing to the emergence of cue reactivity. Conventional pharmacological and physical interventions suffer from low efficiency and high effect variance. Closed-loop physical interventions, which adjust stimulation parameters in real-time based on brain state, are an innovative approach with the potential to enhance the precision and efficiency of treatments. Closed-loop interventions based on transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) hold promise as a novel therapeutic method for treating methamphetamine addiction. This study aims to develop and evaluate the effect of closed-loop tACS on cue reactivity and inhibition control function in MUD. Therefore, the investigators intend to employ the non-invasive tACS technique, predicated upon biomarkers of addiction states, to administer specific frequency stimulations to targeted brain regions, aiming to achieve therapeutic objectives in addiction treatment.
Inclusion Criteria:
Individuals aged between 18 and 55 years, irrespective of gender, having completed a minimum of 9 years of education or are capable of effectively cooperating in questionnaire evaluations.
Meet the diagnostic criteria set forth by the DSM-5 concerning the severity of amphetamine-type substance addiction.
A history of utilizing amphetamine-type substances for a duration not less than one year, with a frequency of use of at least once per week.
Consent to actively cooperate in the completion of subsequent follow-up assessments.
Exclusion Criteria:
Severe cognitive functional impairments manifested through a history of head trauma, cerebrovascular diseases, epilepsy, etc., or usage of cognitive enhancement drugs in the past 6 months; an intellectual disability with an IQ score less than 70.
A diagnosis of schizophrenia or other severe mental illnesses as per the DSM-5 criteria.
Abuse or dependence on other psychoactive substances (excluding nicotine) within the past 5 years.
Severe organic diseases that might compromise study participation. Contraindications to tACS, include a history of epileptic seizures or the presence of metallic implants in proximity to the head.