Efficacy of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation on craving in substance use disorders: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

J Addict DisApr 18, 2026 (epub)
Clinical ResearchPsychiatry

Priyanka Saha, Jadeer K Muhammed, Pinki Sevda et al.

✦ AI-curated · Sources linked

In 30 seconds

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) on craving in substance use disorders, analyzing three randomized controlled trials with a total of 138 participants. The results indicated a moderate reduction in craving compared to sham stimulation, with a pooled effect size of g = -0.596 (95% CI: -1.039 to -0.152; p = 0.008).

Key findings

  • Pooled analysis showed a moderate reduction in craving with HD-tDCS (g = -0.596; p = 0.008).
  • The analysis included three RCTs with a total of 138 participants.
  • Risk of bias in the included studies ranged from low to moderate.
  • Minimal heterogeneity was observed (I 2 = 0%).

Why it matters

Understanding effective interventions for craving in substance use disorders is crucial for preventing relapse. This study suggests that HD-tDCS may be a promising noninvasive option to help manage cravings, potentially improving treatment outcomes.

What to keep in mind

The small number of studies and limited sample sizes restrict the generalizability of the findings.

Source

PubMed · PMID 42000300

Published in J Addict Dis. This summary was written by xxcode from the publication's abstract and metadata. It is not peer reviewed and is not a substitute for the original article. For clinical decisions, review the original publication.

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