NCT06687161 · RECRUITING
Treating Insomnia in Mild Cognitive Impairment
This trial is testing whether combining transcranial magnetic stimulation (a non-invasive device that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain) with cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia can improve sleep in people with mild cognitive impairment. It is a Phase NA study, meaning it is evaluating a treatment approach rather than a drug, and is still in the process of determining whether this combination works and is safe.
You may qualify if
- Aged 60 years or older
- Speak and read English
- Clinical diagnosis of MCI or Subjective Cognitive Impairment (SCI)-a perceived gradual worsening in cognitive ability relative to one's younger self, or peer group-reported by either the participant or informant
- Reported insomnia symptoms (sleep-onset and/or sleep maintenance) that cause significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, or other areas of functioning over the past three months
- Have access to an Internet-enabled computer or tablet at home, or ability to connect a BIDMC-provided tablet to the internet, with private space to complete cognitive testing
- Capable of and willing to provide written informed consent
You're excluded if
- Evidence of significant cognitive impairment or dementia
- Contraindications for TMS or MRI
- Current psychological treatment for insomnia
- Uncontrolled moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea or other untreated sleep disorder (e.g., Restless Leg Syndrome, Periodic Limb Movement Disorder, parasomnia). Sleep apnea that is managed (e.g., regular use of a CPAP) and stable for ≥3 months is allowed.
- Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, Lewy-Body disease, or other neurological condition known to impact sleep
- Current diagnosis of major psychiatric disorder (well-controlled depression or anxiety is permitted)
- Current opiate/opioid use
- Alcohol or drug abuse within the past year
- Irregular sleep schedule (bedtime before 8pm/after 2am OR wake time before 4am/after 10am), unless participant states they are willing and able to change if prompted.
The sponsor's own eligibility wording, lightly reformatted. The study team makes the final eligibility decision — worth discussing with your doctor.
Eligibility criteria as of 2025-10-24