TMS for Insomnia Study

TMS for Insomnia Study

Research study flyer for Psychiatry Department's TMS for insomnia study
Have you been having consistent problems with sleep? Do you toss and turn in bed, and feel like you just can’t turn your brain off? If so, you could be a good fit for our research study!
 
Our study, conducted by the SCAN Lab in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Arizona, is examining the effectiveness of a novel brain stimulation technique for improving sleep. This brain stimulation is known as cTBS (continuous theta burst stimulation), a type of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). This stimulation involves a handheld device held up to your head for 40 seconds that uses a brief series of magnetic pulses to alter patterns of brain activation in the area underneath the device. It is well-tolerated when used in people without any contraindications. A prior pilot study conducted by the SCAN lab showed that TMS can improve sleep, but we cannot guarantee any results.
 
*Please also note that an Institutional Review Board responsible for human subjects research at The University of Arizona has reviewed this research project and found it to be acceptable, according to applicable state and federal regulations and University policies designed to protect the rights and welfare of participants in research.
 

Participant Eligibility:

To participate in this study, you will need to meet the following requirements:

  • Suspected or diagnosed insomnia disorder, without a sleep apnea diagnosis
  • Willing to undergo TMS treatment in Tucson, 10 times in the evening within a 2-3 week period
  • Able and willing to complete a fMRI scan (copy of brain scan provided to participants upon request!)
  • Able and willing to wear a MUSE headband and Fitbit to sleep for 5 weeks
  • No other major mental health or general health concerns

Compensation:

$1,000 and a Fitbit Inspire 3 upon completion of all study activities with full compliance to the study protocol (e.g., wearing your Fitbit and headband every night, completing all TMS sessions, etc.).

Contact:

Any additional questions can be emailed to: 

If you are interested in learning more about the study or seeing if you qualify, please complete our RedCap Screening Questionnaire to determine your eligibility:

An Institutional Review Board responsible for human subjects research at The University of Arizona reviewed this research project and found it to be acceptable, according to applicable state and federal regulations and University policies designed to protect the rights and welfare of participants in research.

Updated: 04/11/25