Effects of Repetitive tDCS on ad Libitum Smoking Behavior: EMA and EEG Study

Bilateral (left cathodal/ right anodal) transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) seems to reduce craving and to increase the time till smoking the first cigarette after the intervention. The current study explores whether actual cigarette consumption decreases after repetitive tDCS. Cigarette consumption and craving will therefore be measured by means of EMA, before (at baseline), during and after multiple tDCS sessions, and at 3 months follow-up. To study the working mechanism behind the effects of tDCS, electrophysiological responses (ERPs) and behavioral measures of cognitive control functioning will be taken into account at baseline, one day after the last tDCS session and at three months follow up. We hypothesize that cigarette consumption will decrease after repetitive tDCS, and that this effect is associated with better cognitive control functioning.