Study of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation to Treat Epilepsy

Launched by MAYO CLINIC · Dec 30, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a treatment called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to see if it can help reduce the number and severity of seizures in people with focal epilepsy. Focal epilepsy is a type of epilepsy where seizures start in one specific area of the brain. The researchers want to find out how effective this non-invasive method, which involves applying a mild electrical current to the scalp, can be for those who are not getting enough help from medications.

To participate in this study, individuals need to have a diagnosis of focal epilepsy and experience at least two seizures each month, despite trying at least two different anti-seizure medications. Participants should be between 65 and 74 years old and must be able to keep track of their seizures in a diary. Throughout the study, they will continue taking their usual medications. It’s important to note that some people may not be eligible, such as those with certain medical conditions, specific types of seizures that are not caused by epilepsy, or recent serious mental health issues. If you or someone you know might be interested in this trial, it could be a chance to explore a new treatment option for managing epilepsy.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • Inclusion Criteria
• • Clinical diagnosis of generalized onset or focal epilepsy or sleep-related epileptic encephalopathy.
• • Estimated to have at least 2 countable seizures per month or spike-wave index ≥50%.
• • Has not had control with at least 2 anti-seizure medicines.
• • Able to maintain a constant medication for duration of the study (rescue meds allowed).
• • Subject or legally authorized representative is able to understand consent and keep a seizure diary in English.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • A disease likely to progress over course of the study.
• • Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures.
• • Suicide attempt or psychiatric hospitalization past 2 years.
• • A skin condition interfering with scalp electrodes or allergy to silver.
• • Women will verify not pregnant, and if applicable, have a serum pregnancy test.
• • Implanted devices (e.g. pacemakers)-except VNS, which is allowed.