NCT05918835 · New York State Psychiatric Institute
Effects of rTMS on Food Choice in Anorexia Nervosa
What this study is about
This study will examine the impact of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on food choice behavior and related neural activity.
View original scientific description
This study will examine the impact of high-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation on food choice behavior and related neural activity.
Interventions
DEVICE
High-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (active rTMS)
HF-rTMS is applied with a figure-of-8 coil using the Magstim TMS System. Participants receive one administration of HF-rTMS, delivered to the region of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) with greatest resting-state functional connectivity to the dorsal striatum (individualized per participant). HF-rTMS is delivered at a frequency of 10 Hz for approximately 37 minutes (3000 total pulses).
DEVICE
Sham repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (sham rTMS)
Sham rTMS is applied with a figure-of-8 sham coil using the Magstim TMS System, which is identical to the active coil, replicates the sounds of HF-rTMS, and is designed to mimic sensations of HF-rTMS. Participants receive one administration of sham rTMS, delivered to the region of the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) with greatest resting-state functional connectivity to the dorsal striatum (individualized per participant). Sham rTMS is delivered for approximately 37 minutes (3000 total pulses).
Primary outcome measures
Neural activity and functional connectivity during the food choice task
Time frame: Baseline to post-treatment (approx. 1 week apart)
Change in: food choice-related BOLD activity within the dorsal striatum, food choice-related functional Change in: connectivity between the dorsal striatum and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex
Restrictive eating behavior during the food choice task
Time frame: Baseline to post-treatment (approx. 1 week apart)
Change in: proportion of high-fat foods selected; proportion of trials in which participants had an opportunity to implement self-control; proportion of trials in which participants implemented self-control
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
- DSM-5 Diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa
- Age 18-30 years
- Right-handed
- Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥ 16.0
- Voluntarily admitted to inpatient eating disorders unit at NYSPI
- Competent to provide informed consent
- English-speaking
- Medically stable
Exclusion criteria
- High risk of suicide
- Current substance use disorder or other co- morbid psychiatric condition requiring specialized treatment (e.g., psychosis)
- Diagnosis of major medical or neurological problem or taking medication that significantly increases risk for seizure or affects interpretation of findings (e.g., unstable hypertension, seizure disorder)
- Food restrictions (e.g., allergies) which impact greater than 30% of food choice task's choice options
- Indwelling ferromagnetic metallic object (e.g., pacemaker, pump), non- removable metal jewelry, medicinal patch or recent metallic ink tattoo
- History of seizure
- Diagnosis of epilepsy, stroke, multiple sclerosis, traumatic brain injury, Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative diseases, meningoencephalitis or intracerebral abscess, or parenchymal or leptomeningeal cancers
- Prior exposure to TMS
- Currently breast-feeding
- Significant claustrophobia
- Implanted devices or stimulators
- Hearing loss (e.g., currently undergoing treatment with ototoxic medications or those with cochlear implants)
Where
- New York, New York
Collaborators
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Eating Disorders Association, Global Foundation for Eating Disorders
Related conditions & keywords
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 Feb 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations