tDCS to Decrease Opioid Relapse (UG3)

Investigators propose to use EEG to examine oscillatory brain changes as well as self-reported craving before and after administration of five sessions of tDCS+Cognitive Control Network (CCN) priming stimulation vs. sham tDCS+CCN priming (randomized control trial) in 60 opioid dependent participants who recently initiated buprenorphine or methadone. Participants in the first month of prescribed buprenorphine or methadone will be assessed EEG, once prior to tDCS and again one week later after completion of 5 sessions of tDCS+CCN priming. EEG will be expected to provide 1) validation of expected network and oscillatory changes from tDCS-targeting and 2) an effect size for DLPFC vs sham stimulation. Go/no go criteria for the UG3 phase will be demonstration of enhanced frontal theta power during a WM task AND greater change (at least 10% difference between conditions, controlling for baseline craving) in subjective craving following the tDCS+CCN priming intervention compared to sham tDCS+CCN priming.

Inclusion criteria

• current opioid dependence
• between 21-50 years of age
• recent initiation of buprenorphine or methadone (<30 days)

Exclusion criteria

• current criteria for a DSM-V diagnosis of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, schizo-affective, schizophreniform, or paranoid disorder
• current suicidality
• evidence of neurocognitive dysfunction
• contraindications for tDCS (e.g seizure disorder)
• probation/parole requirements or an upcoming move that might interfere with protocol participation
• planning to terminate buprenorphine in less than 3 months
• scalp lesions near the tDCS electrode sites