Plain-English translation of NCT07279740 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Phase 2 — Testing in a bigger group (up to a few hundred people) to see if the treatment actually works and is still safe.
This study is testing whether methylphenidate combined with a type of non-invasive brain stimulation called intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) can help treat apathy—a loss of motivation and initiative—in people with Alzheimer's disease or mixed dementia. Apathy is a common symptom that can significantly affect quality of life, and researchers want to see if combining this medication with brain stimulation works better than brain stimulation alone.
Apathy is a difficult symptom to treat in people with Alzheimer's disease, and current treatments don't always work well. This trial explores whether combining the medication with this form of brain stimulation might offer a more effective approach.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
If you qualify, you would be assigned to one of two groups: one that receives the medication paired with brain stimulation sessions, or one that receives brain stimulation only. The brain stimulation (iTBS) is delivered through a coil placed on your scalp—it's non-invasive and painless. You would attend study visits where the treatment is provided, and your response to the treatment would be carefully monitored over time. Your care partner would also be involved in the study to help track any changes in your motivation and daily functioning.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 4, 2026 · Not medical advice
Canada
Phase
Testing effectiveness
Sponsor
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
Collaborators
Alzheimer Society of Canada, Sunnybrook Research Institute
Enrollment target
~12 participants
Started
January 2026
Primary completion
October 2027
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in December 2025.
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