NCT07215884 · University of California, San Francisco
Dopamine and Sensorimotor Function in Stuttering
What this study is about
This study is being done to understand the effect of aripiprazole on adults who stutter. Stuttering is a disorder that affects speech fluency. This study aims to understand sensorimotor pathways of stuttering and possible interventions.
View original scientific description
This study is being done to understand the effect of aripiprazole on adults who stutter. Stuttering is a disorder that affects speech fluency. This study aims to understand sensorimotor pathways of stuttering and possible interventions.
Interventions
DRUG
Aripiprazole 10 MG
The effects of aripiprazole on stuttering and various behavioral and neural outcomes will be studied compared to placebo.
DRUG
Placebo
Placebo will be compared against aripiprazole for effect on stuttering and various behavioral and neural markers.
Primary outcome measures
Pre-speech auditory modulation
Time frame: 3-4 hours after intervention dose is delivered
Pre-speech auditory modulation (PSAM) is a measure of auditory cortical activity (as collect via magnetoencephalography) in response to a speaking and and matching silent reading task.
Speaking Induced Suppression (SIS)
Time frame: 3-4 hours after intervention
SIS is a phenomenon measured through magnetoencephalography that is a marker of auditory cortical response to self-produced speech compared with playback of the same speech.
Centering
Time frame: 3-4 hours after intervention
This is a speech behavior associated with SIS involving a reduction of speech variability from speech onset to mid-utterances. This is derived from auditory recordings occurring during magnetoencephalography collection.
Feedback alterations
Time frame: 3-4 hours after intervention
This is a measure of fluency enhancement by altered speech feedback (manipulated by methods such as masking noise, frequency shifted feedback,. etc.) This is measured through audio recordings and brain activation patterns during magnetoencephalography.
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
- native speakers of American English
- for adults who stutter, presence of stuttering will be confirmed, with onset before age 6 years
- Normal hearing
- Ages of 18 to 65 years
- healthy adults without hearing-language difficulties
Exclusion criteria
- self-reported speech-language-hearing difficulties other than stuttering
- self-reported neurological or psychological problems
- other medications (drugs that affect dopaminergic system and/or benzodiazepines)
Where
- San Francisco, California
Collaborators
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), University of Washington
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 Oct 14, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations