Study points to possible effectiveness of TMS for treatment of Cocaine Use Disorder

Cocaine-seeking behavior is marked by significant reduction in activity in the prefrontal cortex. This research cohort of scientists in the U.S. and Italy have tested their hypothesis that radial transcranial magnetic stimulation to help activate the prefrontal cortex can be used to mitigate cravings for cocaine among individuals in early recovery from a CUD. Their initial findings show that, within the test group, cravings for the substance were reported 2.5 times more in the control group versus the those who received the TMS treatment. This study warrants further research, as identifying non-therapeutic options for treatment of CUD is needed, and the pilot study's results are positive. 


http://www.europeanneuropsychopharmacology.com/article/S0924-977X(15)00361-2/pdf

Terraneo, A.; Leggio, L.; Saladini, M. et al. Transcranial magnetic stimulation of dorsolateral prefrontal cortex reduces cocaine use: A pilot study. European Neuropsychopharmacology: 2016.  26(1):37-44. Epub 2015 Dec 4. PMD 26655188.