NCT06072703 · The Methodist Hospital Research Institute
Neuromodulating Cortical Regions Involved in Neurogenic Bladder in MS
(MSBLADDER)
What this study is about
Neurogenic overactive bladder (NOAB), characterized by urinary frequency, urgency or urgency incontinence symptoms occurring during the storage phase of the bladder, is the most common urinary complaint in multiple sclerosis (MS).
View original scientific description
Neurogenic overactive bladder (NOAB), characterized by urinary frequency, urgency or urgency incontinence symptoms occurring during the storage phase of the bladder, is the most common urinary complaint in multiple sclerosis (MS). Current management options for NOAB in MS have limited efficacy and considerable adverse effects, which underscores the significance of this study and highlights the need for better, less invasive therapies. This novel study investigates brain therapeutic targets that could shift the focus of NOAB management in MS from a bladder-centric focus to brain restoration; specifically modulating the brain regions identified in the prior functional magnetic resonance imagining studies. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation that can modulate neurons (excite or inhibit) to improve the connectivity of the regions of interest (ROI). The preliminary data demonstrate, for the first time, significant improvement in bladder symptoms in ten women with MS who have voiding dysfunction following multifocal transcranial magnetic stimulation without any treatment-related adverse effects. This randomized double-blind, sham-controlled single center clinical trial with an optional open-label extension (OLE) phase is designed to evaluate the effects of targeted rTMS in women with MS and NOAB by investigating restorative reorganization of brain function The main purpose of this study is to determine the effects of individualized repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) for improving overactive bladder symptoms such as urinary frequency and urgency with or without incontinence in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Patients will undergo initial screening that includes a demographics information, physical exam, past medical and surgical history, medication list, urine pregnancy test (female subjects with childbearing potential), and completion of questionnaires to confirm the eligibility of patients. All eligible patients will be required to complete a functional MRI scan followed by locating the regions of interest through neural navigation system and finally receiving 10 treatment sessions. Since this is a randomized trial, some patients will receive active treatment/ therapy sessions while others will only receive sham or placebo treatments. The total duration to complete all treatment sessions and follow up visits is approximately 4-5 months.
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
- Adult women (≥ 18 years of age)
- Clinically stable MS defined as ExpandedDisability Status Score (EDSS) ≤ 7.5without exacerbation worsening in the preceding 6 months prior to study entry
- Neurogenic Lower Urinary Tract Dysfunction symptoms ≥ 3 months with NBSS total ≥ 15
- Individuals with Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score \>10 will be eligible
- At least one bladder storage symptoms (e.g., urinary frequency, urinary urgency, nocturia with or without incontinence) indicated by OAB -AT≥ 8
- Individuals with active urinary tract infection (UTI) will be treated and will be enrolled after negative urinalysis
Exclusion criteria
- Pregnant/planning to become pregnant or nursing
- Urodynamic findings of bladder outlet obstruction
- Baclofen or other intrathecal pumps, Pacemakers.
- History of seizure disorder (SZ), immediate family of SZ disorder, in addition to individuals who are taking any medications such as (bupropion) Wellbutrin or substances (ex: heavy alcohol use) that would lower seizure threshold will be excluded.
- History of bipolar disorder, or individuals who are taking medications that can exacerbate the condition such as tricyclic antidepressants, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin-nor-epinephrine reuptake inhibitors, anti-psychotics, lithium, bupropion (Wellbutrin) and antihistamines will be excluded.
- All intracranial lesions and hemorrhagic stroke will be excluded
- History of moderate to severe heart disease or unstable angina
- History of Autonomic Dysreflexia
- History of interstitial cystitis, pelvic radiation
- Intra-detrusor botulinumtoxinA (BTX-A) injection over the past 6 months
- Incarcerated patients will be excluded.
- Active sacral nerve stimulation (SNS) device or any other spinal stimulators
- Indwelling urethral or suprapubic catheter
Where
- Houston, Texas
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 Mar 23, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations