NCT06095063 · RECRUITING
dTMS for Subjective Cognitive Decline
This trial is testing whether deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS) — a non-invasive device that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific brain regions — combined with cognitive training can improve memory, thinking, and mood in older adults who feel their memory is slipping but score normally on tests. It is a Phase NA (feasibility or pilot) study, meaning researchers are exploring early signals, not yet proving the approach works.
Inclusion criteria
- have a family history of late onset sporadic Alzheimer's disease (AD) as defined by having a first degree relative, living or deceased, with a probable or confirmed diagnosis of AD
- have subjective memory decline and concern about memory changes
- score 26 or higher on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA)
- are willing to provide informed consent
- are able to follow the treatment schedule
- are stable on medications for 2 months and are not expected to change medication during the entire study period (if they are taking medications)
- have a satisfactory safety screening questionnaire for TMS
- have an informant/study partner who is able to complete study questionnaires regarding the participant
Exclusion criteria
- have a metal plate in their head, except in the mouth (such as an ear implant, implanted brain stimulators, aneurysm clips)
- have known increased pressure or a history of increased pressure in their brain, which may increase their risk for having seizures
- have a cardiac pacemaker
- have an implanted medication pump
- have a central venous line
- have a significant heart condition
- have current depression or a history of any psychotic disorder, bipolar disorder, eating disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, or dementia other than AD
- have a history of substance abuse in the last 6 months
- have a history of stroke or other brain lesions
- have a personal history of epilepsy
- have a family history of epilepsy
- are a pregnant or breast-feeding woman
- have a history of abnormal MRI of the brain
- have significant hearing loss requiring use of hearing aids
- have untreated hypo- or hyper-thyroidism
- have TMS contraindications
- have unstable medical condition(s)
- regularly use benzodiazepines or other hypnotics within 2 weeks of randomization
The sponsor's own eligibility wording, lightly reformatted. The study team makes the final eligibility decision — worth discussing with your doctor.
Eligibility criteria as of 2025-10-27