Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Alcohol Use Disorder

This study looked at whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation treatment, could help adults with alcohol use disorder when added to their usual treatment. Nine adults receiving abstinence-oriented care received 10 sessions of stimulation over the right front part of the brain. Drinking severity, mood, craving and quality of life were assessed before treatment, immediately after the 10 sessions, and again at one and three months. Brain scans were also obtained at these visits to examine whether stimulation was associated with changes in brain connections. The study had no comparison group, so the results cannot show whether any change was caused by the stimulation.

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 20 to 65 years * Diagnosis of alcohol use disorder according to DSM-5 criteria * Able to provide written informed consent and complete study procedures Exclusion Criteria: * Moderate to severe alcohol withdrawal * Psychiatric symptoms interfering with alcohol use disorder treatment * Acute physical illness requiring hospitalization * Standard contraindications to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation * Pregnancy or planned pregnancy within one year * Formal disability certification related to a psychiatric disorder