transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) effect on insomnia
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Assessment of the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on insomnia in primary care patients
IRAS ID
359630
Contact name
Chris Griffiths
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Northamptonshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust
ISRCTN Number
ISRCTN00047798
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 7 months, 27 days
Research summary
Background: Insomnia (difficulties falling or staying asleep) is a common, distressing, and impairing sleep disorder and is linked to poor mental and physical health. Clinical guidelines recommend cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) (which can be effective for some people but is costly and there can be long wait times) and medication (which has negative side effects and creates dependency). Therefore, an alternative effective, acceptable and affordable treatment is required to relieve insomnia. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) which delivers low voltage electric currents, applied through two pads on the forehead. tDCS is safe to use at home and has rare and minor side effects (for example, tingling sensation, mild skin irritation or redness, short headache or dizziness). It is currently used for treating mental health conditions. Recent studies suggested that tDCS could also improve sleep quality and reduce insomnia.
Aim: To investigate if insomnia is reduced in primary care participants who receive tDCS
Methods: Participants will be recruited from primary care practices. They will complete self-report questionnaires at baseline and follow-up. At the end of the treatment, we will interview 14 participants about their experience.
Impact: Evidence about the improvement with tDCS could expand NHS treatment for millions of people who experience insomnia. Having a new effective treatment in the NHS that can be used at home could be life-changing for people with insomnia.
REC name
London - Camberwell St Giles Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
25/PR/1011
Date of REC Opinion
14 Aug 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion