Efficacy of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex in Reducing Craving, Depression, and Improving Working Memory in Patients with Cannabis use Disorders: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Sham-Controlled

Abstract

Background: The beneficial effect of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on substance use disorders, achieved by reducing craving, impulsivity, and risk-taking behavior, can be considered an effective therapeutic approach. Transcranial direct current stimulation can be considered an effective therapeutic approach for reducing cannabis craving, improving levels of depression, and enhancing working memory in cannabis users. Objectives: This study investigated the effectiveness of tDCS applied to the Dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) on craving, depression, and working memory in cannabis users. Methods: This was a randomized, sham-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study. Fifty male participants who met the criteria for cannabis use disorder according to DSM-5 were randomly assigned to either the real tDCS group (25 participants) or the sham tDCS group (25 participants). Pretests, including marijuana urine tests, the Marijuana Craving Questionnaire-Short Form (MCQ-SF), the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), and the Wechsler Memory Scale, were conducted before the intervention. The real tDCS group underwent 20 sessions of tDCS stimulation, each lasting 20 minutes, with a current intensity of 2 milliamperes applied at the F3 and F4 positions for DLPFC stimulation. The sham tDCS group received only 30 seconds of initial electrical stimulation, with no further current delivered. Both groups also received standard psychological treatments alongside the tDCS interventions. After completing the interventions, the same tests were administered again to assess the outcomes. Results: Participants who received real tDCS showed significant improvement in levels of craving, depression, and working memory. This reduction in scores and levels was statistically significant compared to the sham group. Conclusions: Transcranial direct current stimulation can be considered an effective therapeutic approach for reducing cannabis craving, improving levels of depression, and enhancing working memory in cannabis users.