NCT06294106 · Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
eTMS for Veterans and First Responders With PTSD
What this study is about
A battery of physiological and behavioral data will be collected before and after application of eTMS. Participants will be veterans or first responders diagnosed with PTSD. Study will be a where neither patients nor doctors know which treatment is given, sham-controlled, parallel group, randomly assigned clinical trial.
View original scientific description
A battery of physiological and behavioral data will be collected before and after application of eTMS. Participants will be veterans or first responders diagnosed with PTSD. Study will be a double-blind, sham-controlled, parallel group, randomized clinical trial.
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
- Veteran or first responder
- diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder with PCL-5 cutoff of 31 or above
Exclusion criteria
- Claustrophobia
- Contraindications to MRI
- Uncontrolled medical, psychological, or neurological conditions
- Unable to calculate EEG alpha frequency
- History of ECT or rTMS
- History of intracranial lesion or increased intracranial pressure
- History of stroke
- History of other neurologic conditions
- Family history of epilepsy
- Personal history of epilepsy
- certain medications
Where
- Roanoke, Virginia
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 Jul 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations