HD-tACS for Alcohol Use Disorder

Accelerated High-Definition Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (HD-tACS) for Alcohol Use Disorder: A Randomized Controlled Trial

This study aims to systematically explore the effectiveness of accelerated HD-tACS in treating AUD, particularly its efficacy in reducing alcohol craving and preventing relapse in AUD patients.

This study conducted a multi-center randomized clinical controlled trial among individuals with alcohol use disorders, aiming to verify the effectiveness of accelerated HD-tACS in targeting the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for the treatment of AUD. In particular, it aimed to assess the efficacy of accelerated HD-tACS in reducing alcohol craving and reducing relapse. Eligible patients were randomly divided into the accelerated HD-tACS group and the sham stimulation group in a 1:1 ratio. Clinical and electroencephalogram data were collected at baseline and after the intervention. Additionally, a follow-up assessment of alcohol consumption was conducted for all participants after the intervention ended.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age range: 18-55 years old, gender not restricted;
• Meets the DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for alcohol use disorder (moderate to severe);
• AUDIT score ≥ 16;
• Baseline score after alcohol cue-induced stimulation is ≥ 3;
• Completed detoxification treatment before enrollment (moderate to severe), with detoxification duration of ≥ 7 days and ≤ 90 days;
• Has a primary school education or above, and can understand and complete the research assessment;
• Voluntarily participated in the study and signed the informed consent form.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Currently, there are other substance use disorders (except nicotine);
• Currently, there are schizophrenia, bipolar disorder or other severe psychotic disorders;
• Has a history of epilepsy or family history of epilepsy;
• Has a history of brain trauma, brain surgery or intracranial metal implants;
• Has received electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial electrical/magnetic/ultrasound stimulation within the past 6 months;
• Pregnant or lactating women;
• Other situations that the researchers consider unsuitable for participation in this study.