Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD)TDACSNCT07652788
Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in the Treatment of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
A study testing Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in people with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD), run by Centre Hospitalier St Anne.
Trial summary
Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in the Treatment of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial Read more about this study
- Who is it for?
- Ages 18 to 60 years
- Conditions the study is for
- Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD)
- What is being tested?
- Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
- Could I receive a placebo?
- Yes, some participants may receive a placebo
- How many people
- 40 participants
- Where
- No sites listed yet
- Study dates
- 1 Jun 2026to 20 Feb 2028
- Phase
- Interventional
- Are there results?
- Not yet: the study is under way
Key requirements
Who can take part, as listed by the sponsor. Only the study team can confirm whether you are eligible, so take this list to your doctor.
- Ages 18 to 60 years
- All sexes
- No healthy volunteers
- Adult
Who may be able to join
- Adult patient aged 18 to 60 years inclusive
- Patient diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), combined or predominantly inattentive presentation, previously established by a healthcare professional
- Patients must be registered in the active caseload of the Adult Neurodevelopmental Disorders Unit (STNDA)
- Stable psychotropic medication regimen for at least four weeks prior to inclusion, in terms of both molecule and dosage, particularly for methylphenidate, or no current psychotropic treatment. Medication must remain unchanged throughout study participation, unless medically justified changes are required
- Patient with a cognitive status deemed sufficient by the unit's referring psychiatrist to ensure appropriate completion of the scales and tests included in the protocol
- Free, informed, and written consent
Who cannot join
- •General condition impairment (severe fatigue or marked weakness, convalescence after an acute illness or surgery, or recent alcohol consumption)
- Psychiatric and neurological disorders
- Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Diagnosis of personality disorder (Cluster A, B, C, or other), according to DSM-5-TR
- Diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorder or other psychotic disorders according to DSM-5-TR
- Diagnosis of bipolar disorder with manic episode or history of manic episodes according to DSM-5-TR
Show all 25Show fewer
- Confirmed neurological disorder
- Epilepsy or history of epileptic seizures
- Medical comorbidities
- Patient with known or suspected cardiac disease
- Patient with severe pulmonary disease
- Patient with cerebrovascular disease (e.g., stroke)
- Dermatological and surgical contraindications
- Patient with scalp lesions, open wounds, or skin conditions (severe acne, herpes, burns, skin fissures)
- Patient with severe dermatitis, oozing eczema, or fragile scalp
- Patient with major surgical scars
- Patient with recent craniotomy
- Implantable devices and materials
- Patient with a pacemaker or intracranial electrodes, presence of intracranial metal, or skull defects (e.g., post-craniectomy or trepanation without reconstruction)
- Other criteria:
- Simultaneous participation in another non-pharmacological intervention provided in the STNDA day hospital (e.g., psychoeducation, cognitive remediation, body expression therapy, emotional regulation training)
- Patient with non-pathological ASRS screening scores (fewer than 4 of the first 6 items rated "Very often")
- Insufficient proficiency in the French language
- Patient under legal guardianship, curatorship, or judicial protection
- Pregnant or breastfeeding patient (based on clinical interview)
About this study
Official title: Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in the Treatment of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial
Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in the Treatment of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial
Read the detailed description
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by attentional difficulties and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Its treatment is primarily based on a multimodal approach, with first-line pharmacological management using methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Medikinet®, etc.).
However, given the limitations of pharmacological treatments (side effects, contraindications, and risks of misuse), alternative approaches such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) are generating increasing interest.
tDCS is a non-invasive, safe, and low-cost neuromodulation technique that delivers a low-intensity electrical current through electrodes placed on the scalp. It is well tolerated, with mild and transient adverse effects (tingling sensations, local skin redness, mild fatigue), making it a particularly safe approach. Its low cost and ease of use allow for broad accessibility, including in resource-limited healthcare settings.
In ADHD, tDCS targets the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a key region involved in attention and executive functions. Early studies have reported encouraging results in terms of both efficacy and tolerability, particularly when combined with psychotherapeutic interventions.
The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of tDCS in patients with ADHD.
The findings will support the potential future integration of tDCS into the management of ADHD resistant to conventional treatments.
- Being tested
- Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
- Keywords
- stimulation;, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), Échelle ASRS
- Medical subject headings
- Attention Deficit Disorder with Hyperactivity
What participants receive
What participants receive. In a randomised study each person is assigned to one group by chance.
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)Other
Repeated sessions of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS):
5 in-person tDCS sessions Intensity: 2.0 mA Duration: 20 minutes per session Frequency: 5 consecutive days Electrode placement: anode at F3 and cathode at F4
| Study group | Role | What they receive |
|---|---|---|
| tDCS sham | Sham comparator | The placebo (sham) treatment will follow an identical protocol in terms of session duration, frequency, and overall procedure. Stimulation will be simulated, with a brief ramp-up and ramp-down of current at the beginning and end of the session, without actual stimulation during the remainder of the session, in order to mimic the initial sensations of active tDCS. Receives: Other: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) |
| tactive tDCS | Experimental | Active transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS): 2 mA stimulation for 20 minutes.
Repeated sessions of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS):
5 in-person tDCS sessions Intensity: 2.0 mA Duration: 20 minutes per session Frequency: 5 consecutive days Electrode placement: anode at F3 and cathode at F4 Receives: Other: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) |
What is being measured
The primary outcome is the main question the study is designed to answer.
Change in Inattention Symptoms Assessed by the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) from Baseline to Immediately After tDCS
The efficacy of tDCS will be assessed by measuring the change in inattention symptoms using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). The ASRS is a self-report questionnaire used to evaluate ADHD symptoms in adults. A decrease in the ASRS inattention score indicates an improvement in inattention symptoms.
Measured: Baseline and immediately after the last tDCS session
Secondary outcomes (6)
Change in Processing Speed Assessed by the WAIS-IV Coding and Symbol Search Subtests
Processing speed will be assessed using the Coding and Symbol Search subtests of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV). Changes in scores will be compared between the active tDCS group and the sham tDCS group.
Measured: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Change in Working Memory Assessed by the WAIS-IV Digit Span Subtest
Working memory will be assessed using the Digit Span subtest of the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale, Fourth Edition (WAIS-IV). Changes in scores will be compared between the active tDCS group and the sham tDCS group.
Measured: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Change in Selective Attention Assessed by the d2-R Test of Attention
Selective attention will be assessed using the d2-R Test of Attention. Changes in attention performance scores will be compared between the active tDCS group and the sham tDCS group.
Measured: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Change in Emotional Regulation Assessed by the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale - French Version (DERS-F)
Emotional regulation will be assessed using the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale - French Version (DERS-F). Changes in emotional regulation scores will be compared between the active tDCS group and the sham tDCS group.
Measured: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Change in Anxiety and Depression Symptoms Assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)
Anxiety and depression symptoms will be assessed using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Changes in anxiety and depression scores will be compared between the active tDCS group and the sham tDCS group.
Measured: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Incidence of Adverse Events Related to tDCS
The safety and tolerability of tDCS will be assessed by comparing the frequency and nature of adverse events reported in the active tDCS group and the sham tDCS group.
Measured: From the first tDCS session through 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Timeline
From the start of the study to its completion; the mark is today. Estimated dates are the sponsor’s plan.
- First posted17 Jun 2026
- Study start1 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion10 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion20 Feb 2028 (estimated)
Resources
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govThe registry entry this page is built from, with its full change history.
- Other trials for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD)Studies of the same condition, open and under way.
- More trials run by Centre Hospitalier St AnneThe sponsor's other registered studies.
- What the trial phases meanHow a treatment moves from first tests in people to approval.
More details
For doctors and researchers: how the study is designed, who runs it, and its registry IDs.
Study design
- Study type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Phase N/A
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Model description
- parallel assignment
- Masking
- Double blind
- Who is masked
- Participant, Investigator
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (estimated)
Sponsor and investigators
- Lead sponsor
- Centre Hospitalier St Anne
- Sponsor type
- University, hospital or other
- Responsible party
- Sponsor
IDs, dates and publications
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07652788
- Sponsor's protocol ID
- 2025-A02038-41
- Acronym
- TDACS
- Status last verified
- May 2026
- First submitted
- 21 May 2026
- Last updated
- 17 Jun 2026
- Results posted
- No
- Data monitoring committee
- No
- FDA-regulated drug
- No
- FDA-regulated device
- No
Study at a glance
From the registry record, last updated by the sponsor on 17 Jun 2026. Recruitment status is as the sponsor reported it: confirm with the study team.
- Official title
- Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in the Treatment of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial
- ClinicalTrials.gov ID
- NCT07652788
- Acronym / sponsor ID
- TDACS / 2025-A02038-41
- Keywords
- stimulation;, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), Échelle ASRS
- Study type
- Interventional
- Recruitment status
- Not yet recruiting
- Enrolment
- 40 participants (estimated)
- Lead sponsor
- Centre Hospitalier St AnneUniversity, hospital or other
- Study start
- 1 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- Primary completion
- 10 Jun 2026 (estimated)
- Study completion
- 20 Feb 2028 (estimated)
- First posted
- 17 Jun 2026 (actual)
- Results
- Not posted in the source record
Clinical summary
The research question as the sponsor registered it. This describes what the study plans to test, not what it found.
Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) in the Treatment of Adult Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD): A Randomized Double-Blind Controlled Trial
Detailed description
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by attentional difficulties and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity (American Psychiatric Association, 2013). Its treatment is primarily based on a multimodal approach, with first-line pharmacological management using methylphenidate (Ritalin®, Medikinet®, etc.).
However, given the limitations of pharmacological treatments (side effects, contraindications, and risks of misuse), alternative approaches such as transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) are generating increasing interest.
tDCS is a non-invasive, safe, and low-cost neuromodulation technique that delivers a low-intensity electrical current through electrodes placed on the scalp. It is well tolerated, with mild and transient adverse effects (tingling sensations, local skin redness, mild fatigue), making it a particularly safe approach. Its low cost and ease of use allow for broad accessibility, including in resource-limited healthcare settings.
In ADHD, tDCS targets the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, a key region involved in attention and executive functions. Early studies have reported encouraging results in terms of both efficacy and tolerability, particularly when combined with psychotherapeutic interventions.
The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of tDCS in patients with ADHD.
The findings will support the potential future integration of tDCS into the management of ADHD resistant to conventional treatments.
Study design
- Primary purpose
- Treatment
- Allocation
- Randomised
- Intervention model
- Parallel groups
- Masking
- Double blind (participant, investigator)
- Number of arms
- 2
- Model description
- parallel assignment
| Arm | Type | Receives |
|---|---|---|
| tDCS sham | Sham comparator | Other: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)The placebo (sham) treatment will follow an identical protocol in terms of session duration, frequency, and overall procedure. Stimulation will be simulated, with a brief ramp-up and ramp-down of current at the beginning and end of the session, without actual stimulation during the remainder of the session, in order to mimic the initial sensations of active tDCS. |
| tactive tDCS | Experimental | Other: Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)Active transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS): 2 mA stimulation for 20 minutes. Repeated sessions of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS): 5 in-person tDCS sessions Intensity: 2.0 mA Duration: 20 minutes per session Frequency: 5 consecutive days Electrode placement: anode at F3 and cathode at F4 |
Who may qualify
- Ages
- 18 to 60 years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Not accepted
- Age groups
- Adult
Key inclusion criteria (6 listed)
- Adult patient aged 18 to 60 years inclusive
- Patient diagnosed with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), combined or predominantly inattentive presentation, previously established by a healthcare professional
- Patients must be registered in the active caseload of the Adult Neurodevelopmental Disorders Unit (STNDA)
- Stable psychotropic medication regimen for at least four weeks prior to inclusion, in terms of both molecule and dosage, particularly for methylphenidate, or no current psychotropic treatment. Medication must remain unchanged throughout study participation, unless medically justified changes are required
- Patient with a cognitive status deemed sufficient by the unit's referring psychiatrist to ensure appropriate completion of the scales and tests included in the protocol
Key exclusion criteria (25 listed)
- •General condition impairment (severe fatigue or marked weakness, convalescence after an acute illness or surgery, or recent alcohol consumption)
- Psychiatric and neurological disorders
- Diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
- Diagnosis of personality disorder (Cluster A, B, C, or other), according to DSM-5-TR
- Diagnosis of schizophrenia spectrum disorder or other psychotic disorders according to DSM-5-TR
Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening; this overview does not establish that a patient qualifies. Full inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Interventions
| Intervention | Type | Arms |
|---|---|---|
| Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)Repeated sessions of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS): 5 in-person tDCS sessions Intensity: 2.0 mA Duration: 20 minutes per session Frequency: 5 consecutive days Electrode placement: anode at F3 and cathode at F4 | Other | tDCS sham, tactive tDCS |
Primary outcome
Change in Inattention Symptoms Assessed by the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) from Baseline to Immediately After tDCS
Time frame: Baseline and immediately after the last tDCS session
The efficacy of tDCS will be assessed by measuring the change in inattention symptoms using the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS). The ASRS is a self-report questionnaire used to evaluate ADHD symptoms in adults. A decrease in the ASRS inattention score indicates an improvement in inattention symptoms.
6 secondary outcomes
Change in Processing Speed Assessed by the WAIS-IV Coding and Symbol Search Subtests
Time frame: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Change in Working Memory Assessed by the WAIS-IV Digit Span Subtest
Time frame: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Change in Selective Attention Assessed by the d2-R Test of Attention
Time frame: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Change in Emotional Regulation Assessed by the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale - French Version (DERS-F)
Time frame: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Change in Anxiety and Depression Symptoms Assessed by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)
Time frame: Baseline, immediately after the last tDCS session, and 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Incidence of Adverse Events Related to tDCS
Time frame: From the first tDCS session through 6 weeks after the last tDCS session
Results and safety
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
Research links
- Official record on ClinicalTrials.govLast updated by the sponsor 17 Jun 2026.
Related trials for Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD)
Enrolling by invitationPhase 3
An Open-Label Study to Assess the Long-Term Safety of Solriamfetol in Children and Adolescents With ADHD
ADHD
Not yet recruitingPhase 2
Lisdexamfetamine For the Treatment of Conduct Disorder in Children
Conduct Disorder
RecruitingObservational study
Augmenting Parent Management Training for Child Temper Outbursts Using a Digital Tool
Disruptive Behavior Disorders, Conduct Disorder
Recruiting
Micronutrient Supplementation and Chronotherapy in Children With ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)
RecruitingPhase 3
Forward Treatment of Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Using Solriamfetol (FOCUS-2)
ADHD
Referral and contact
AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals. Contact the study team or a site listed below; they decide who can take part.
The record lists no contact. Use the official record to reach the sponsor.
Questions about this trial
What is this clinical trial studying?
A study testing Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in people with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder(ADHD), run by Centre Hospitalier St Anne.
The full registered description is in the About this study section and the official record.
Who may be eligible to take part?
The sponsor lists 6 inclusion and 25 exclusion criteria. Eligibility is decided by the study team after screening, so read the full criteria and contact a listed site.
Is this clinical trial currently recruiting?
The record says: opening soon, as of the sponsor's last update on 17 Jun 2026. Status can change between updates, so confirm with the study contact before making plans.
What are the possible benefits and risks?
They depend on the study and the treatment, and no study can promise a benefit. Some participants in this study may receive a placebo. The study team explains the known risks during informed consent, before anyone joins; the record itself does not list them.
Are results available for this study?
This study is still under way. Results are not available in the source record yet.
How can a doctor refer a patient or contact the research team?
The record lists no contact. The official record names the sponsor, who can be asked directly. AzTrials does not enrol participants or take referrals.
What does the primary outcome measure?
Change in Inattention Symptoms Assessed by the Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS) from Baseline to Immediately After tDCS (time frame: Baseline and immediately after the last tDCS session). It is what the study was designed to measure, not a finding.
Where can I read the original study information?
Does a listing mean the treatment is approved or proven to work?
No. A listing means the study is registered. It does not show that the treatment is safe, works, or is approved by a regulator.
How often is this information updated?
AzTrials copies changed records from ClinicalTrials.gov every night and reloads the whole registry every week. The sponsor last updated this record on 17 Jun 2026.