Non-invasive brain stimulation in substance use disorders: implications for dissemination to clinical settings

Abstract

With expanding knowledge of how neural circuitry is disrupted in substance use disorders (SUD), non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) techniques have emerged as potential strategies to directly modulate those neural circuits. There is some evidence supporting the two most common forms of NIBS, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), in the treatment of SUD. Yet results of recent studies have been mixed and critical methodological issues must be addressed before strong conclusions can be drawn. This review highlights recent evidence of NIBS for SUD, addressing the impact of stimulation on relevant clinical and cognitive outcomes in substance-using populations. Additionally, we aim to bring a clinical perspective to the opportunities and challenges of implementing neuromodulation in SUD treatment.