Improve thinking with scalp stimulation

Trial ID
NCT05808504
Official Title
Investigation of the Benefits of Electrical Non-invasive Stimulation on Cognitive Symptoms in Parkinson's Disease
Goal
Improve thinking with scalp stimulation
Phase
NA
Status
RECRUITING
Sponsor
Institut National de la Santé Et de la Recherche Médicale, France
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
90 participants
Conditions
Parkinson Disease
Interventions
Neuropsychological assessment, Neurological assessment, Cognitive task, EEG, tACS (real or sham)

Summary For Families

The trial is testing whether non-invasive alternating electrical stimulation can improve cognitive symptoms in Parkinson's, by targeting the brain rhythms that support attention and memory. Participants receive transcranial alternating current stimulation, either real or sham, while researchers record EEG and run cognitive tasks, the weak scalp currents aim to nudge or re-synchronize neural oscillations and are used as an add-on rather than replacing levodopa or other meds. They are recruiting adults 18 to 75 with idiopathic Parkinson's and reasonably preserved cognition (MoCA 22 or higher), no deep brain stimulation, and no major other neurological or psychiatric disorders, with healthy adults included as controls.

Locations

  • CHU de Rennes, Rennes, France

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this trial testing?
This trial is studying Neuropsychological assessment. The trial is testing whether non-invasive alternating electrical stimulation can improve cognitive symptoms in Parkinson's, by targeting the brain rhythms that support attention and memory. Participants receive transcranial alternating current stimulation, either real or sham, while researchers record EEG and run cognitive tasks, the weak scalp currents aim to nudge or re-synchronize neural oscillations and are used as an add-on rather than replacing levodopa or other meds. They are recruiting adults 18 to 75 with idiopathic Parkinson's and reasonably preserved cognition (MoCA 22 or higher), no deep brain stimulation, and no major other neurological or psychiatric disorders, with healthy adults included as controls.
Who can participate?
Participants must be between 18 Years and 75 Years.
Where is this trial located?
This trial is recruiting at 1 location.
Does it cost anything to join?
No. There is no cost to participate. Study-related care and treatment are provided at no charge.
How long does the trial last?
This trial is estimated to last approximately 2 years and 8 months.
Will I get the real drug or a placebo?
It depends on the trial design. Some Parkinson's trials are placebo controlled, meaning a portion of participants get an inactive comparison while others get the experimental treatment. Some use crossover designs so everyone eventually receives the active treatment at some point. Observational trials do not use a placebo at all because they are not testing a new treatment. The consent form for any specific trial spells out the design and your odds of being assigned to placebo before you enroll.
How often will I need to visit the study site?
Visit frequency varies by trial. Many Parkinson's studies require an in person visit every 4 to 12 weeks during the active treatment phase, with shorter or longer gaps depending on the design. The site coordinator can give you the full visit schedule before you sign anything, so you know what the time commitment looks like.
Can I leave the trial if I change my mind?
Yes. You can withdraw from any clinical trial at any time, for any reason, without affecting your standard medical care. Trials are voluntary by law. The team may ask if you are willing to do a brief exit visit so they can collect safety information, but you are not obligated.
Will travel or parking be reimbursed?
Many trials reimburse for parking, mileage, and sometimes lodging if the site is far from your home. Reimbursement policies vary by sponsor and site. When you contact the trial team, ask specifically what is covered and how reimbursement is processed.
Can my spouse or care partner come with me to visits?
In most cases yes, and it is often encouraged. Care partners can help with notes, questions, and getting home safely after a long visit. Some study assessments do need to happen one on one, but care partners are usually welcome for the rest of the appointment.

Related Reading

View on ClinicalTrials.gov