The Science Behind our Work

The purpose of the BRASS study is to evaluate the efficacy of intermittent theta burst (iTBS) transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as a treatment for Veterans with an alcohol use disorder (AUD) to decrease the exceedingly high rate of relapse associated with this condition.

  • At least 60% of those with AUD will experience a major relapse period within 6 months of treatment, irrespective of the intervention (psychosocial and/or pharmacological) employed. Consequently, the high prevalence of AUD and relapse following treatment in Veterans is associated with substantial resource allocation and costs for the DVA Health Care System. Current pharmacological and psychosocial interventions demonstrate only a moderate level of efficacy, which is reflected in the high rate of relapse in AUD. 

iTBS-TMS is a neurostimulation method that is at the forefront of innovative, non-invasive, and safe treatments for AUD, and the disorders that commonly co-occur with AUD. To reduce the high rate of relapse in Veterans with AUD, it is necessary for interventions to more effectively address the associated neurobiological dysfunction and salient co-occurring conditions. Accordingly, additional rigorously controlled studies are required to determine if iTBS-TMS is an effective treatment for Veterans with AUD. 

  •