NCT06858774 · Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Use of Circadian Reset Technology to Alter REM Sleep and Appetitive Control in Patients With Binge Eating Disorder
What this study is about
This project includes testing circadian reset technology (CRT) on frequency of binge eating in a sample of 40 individuals with binge eating disorder. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. Both groups use a virtual reality (VR) headset for 10 minutes (5 upon waking, 5 before sleep) daily for 1 month.
View original scientific description
This project includes testing circadian reset technology (CRT) on frequency of binge eating in a sample of 40 individuals with binge eating disorder. Participants will be randomized to one of two groups. Both groups use a virtual reality (VR) headset for 10 minutes (5 upon waking, 5 before sleep) daily for 1 month. One group will use the CRT software on the headset and the other group will use a software intended to be a control. Measures will be taken at baseline and 1-month. The researchers anticipate that use of CRT will improve sleep quality leading to increased appetitive control.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Circadian Reset Technology
Circadian reset technology is a software used on a VR headset in this intervention. The software is a passive viewing experience like a guided meditation that presents visual images.
BEHAVIORAL
VR Headset
The software used on a VR headset in this intervention is a passive viewing experience like a guided meditation that presents neutral images that mimics the sequence used in the CRT software.
Primary outcome measures
Change in the total number of bulimic episodes
Time frame: Baseline to 1-month
Binge eating frequency measured by Eating Disorder Examination Questionnaire (EDE-Q). The EDE-Q scores behavioral features of eating disorders by calculating the number of episodes and number of days on which the behavior occurs. The total number of bulimic episodes will be measured to determine binge-eating frequency. Scores will be calculated between baseline and 1 month. The EDE-Q is a 28-item self-report measure assessing eating disorder symptoms. Full scale from 0-6, with higher score indicates greater severity of eating disorder symptoms.
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
- Diagnosed with Binge Eating Disorder using EDA-5
- English-speaking
Exclusion criteria
- Acute suicide risk/active suicidal ideation
- PSQI score \<5 indicating good sleep quality
- A condition that may create a risk while using the VR headset including risk of falls, seizures, a heart condition, migraines, an eye or vision condition, or an inner ear condition.
Where
- New York, New York
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 Apr 20, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations