NCT07219810 · Bradley Hospital
Accelerated iTBS Targeting of Working Memory Versus Inhibitory Control in Adolescent ADHD
(WINK)
What this study is about
The objective of this project is to examine the differential therapeutic effect of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS; a type of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) to the left DLPFC versus right PreSMA in modulating working memory (WM) versus inhibitory control (IC) deficits.
View original scientific description
The objective of this project is to examine the differential therapeutic effect of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS; a type of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) to the left DLPFC versus right PreSMA in modulating working memory (WM) versus inhibitory control (IC) deficits. Fifty adolescents (12-18 years old) with parent-reported WM and IC deficits and diagnosed ADHD will be randomized to DLPFC or PreSMA targeted 3x-daily iTBS for a total of ten days (30 total sessions).
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 12-18 years
- English fluency of participant and parent and able to provide informed consent/assent
- Clinical diagnosis of ADHD and confirmation of diagnostic criteria on the Diagnostic Interview for Anxiety, Mood, and OCD and Related Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Child and Adolescent Version (DIAMOND-KID)
- Parent rating on The Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function-Second Edition (BRIEF-2), Parent Form: Working Memory scale T-Score \> 60 AND Inhibition scale T-Score \> 60
Exclusion criteria
- Participants will be screened to exclude individuals with neurological or medical conditions that might confound the results, as well as to exclude participants in whom MRI or TMS might result in increased risk of side effects or complications. Common contraindications include metallic hardware in the body, cardiac pacemaker, patients with an implanted medication pumps or an intracardiac line, or prescription of medications known to lower seizure threshold. These account for most of the exclusion criteria listed below:
- Intracranial pathology from a known genetic disorder (e.g., NF1, tuberous sclerosis) or from acquired neurologic disease (e.g. stroke, tumor), cerebral palsy, history of severe head injury, or significant dysmorphology
- History of fainting spells of unknown or undetermined etiology that might constitute seizures
- History of seizures, diagnosis of epilepsy, or immediate (1st degree relative) family history epilepsy
- Any progressive (e.g., neurodegenerative) neurological disorder
- Chronic (particularly) uncontrolled medical conditions that may cause a medical emergency in case of a provoked seizure (cardiac malformation, cardiac dysrhythmia, asthma, etc.)
- Contraindicated metal implants in the head, brain or spinal cord (excluding dental implants or fillings)
- Non-removable makeup or piercings
- Pacemaker, implanted medication pump, or ventriculo-peritoneal shunt
- Vagal nerve stimulator, deep brain stimulator, or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit
- Signs of increased intracranial pressure
- Intracranial lesion
- History of head injury resulting in prolonged loss of consciousness
- Substance abuse or dependence within past six months (i.e., DSM-5 substance use disorder criteria)
- Chronic treatment with prescription medications that decrease cortical seizure threshold, not including psychostimulant medication if deemed to be medically safe as part of the medical review process.
- Active psychosis or mania
- Acute suicidal intent
- Current pregnancy
- Significant visual, hearing or speech impairment
- Dental braces
- Current wards of the state
Where
- East Providence, Rhode Island
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 22, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations