NCT06155682 · University of Maryland, Baltimore
TMS for Inhibition Enhancement in Schizophrenia
(TIES)
What this study is about
This study purpose is to perform a pilot mechanistic trial repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) clinical trial in 34 people with schizophrenia (Sz). The trial will evaluate whether inhibitory 1 Hertz (Hz) rTMS targeting motor cortex can increase brain inhibition reflected in a decrease in the short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) score from pre-to-post-treatment.
View original scientific description
This study purpose is to perform a pilot mechanistic trial repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) clinical trial in 34 people with schizophrenia (Sz). The trial will evaluate whether inhibitory 1 Hertz (Hz) rTMS targeting motor cortex can increase brain inhibition reflected in a decrease in the short-interval intracortical inhibition (SICI) score from pre-to-post-treatment.
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 18-45 years
- Male or Female
- Able to participate in the informed consent process and provide voluntary informed consent.
- A Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders 5 (DSM-5) diagnosis of schizophrenia documented by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5)
Exclusion criteria
- A history of a DSM-5 substance misuse disorder (other than caffeine or tobacco or mild marijuana misuse) within the past six months; or a positive baseline urine drug screen.
- A history of a current neurological disorder (including, but not limited to Parkinson's Disease, epilepsy, or Multiple Sclerosis)
- History of head trauma resulting in unconsciousness
- Contraindications for TMS, including any history of seizure other than febrile seizure, presence of ferromagnetic metal in cranium, presence of cochlear implant, presence of deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes based on medical history
- Contraindications for MRI, including pacemakers or other metal in body
- Suspected DSM-5 intellectual disability based upon clinical interview and psychosocial history
- Any change in type of antipsychotic medication in the last 30 days and dose in the last 14 days
- Treatment with a benzodiazepine with a dose equivalent to lorazepam 2 mg/day or greater or any anticonvulsant due to the potential of these medications to affect TMS SICI score and the efficacy of rTMS
- Prior history of treatment TMS (equivalent to 5 or more sessions of rTMS or theta-burst) in the past 6 months
- Endorsement of active suicidal ideation on the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale (version: last 30 days) reflected by "yes" response on items 3, 4, or 5 of the ideation questions and/or "yes" to any of the four suicidal behavior items (actual attempt, interrupted attempt, aborted attempt, preparatory acts/behavior)
- A score of 7 or more on the Simpson-Angus Scale of Extrapyramidal Symptoms (range 0-52 with higher scores indicating worse extrapyramidal symptoms)
Where
- Catonsville, Maryland
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 13, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations