Scientists call for regulations for brain stimulation devices sold directly to consumers

———- Brain-Zapping Gadgets Need Regulation, Say Scientists and (Some) Manufacturers (IEEE Spectrum): “Just a few years ago, the idea of electrically stimulating your brain in the comfort of your own home would have sounded pretty weird, and probably like a bad idea. But the practice of brain-zapping—in particular, an easy-to-pull-off technique called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)—has quickly advanced from labs to living rooms. DIYers are building their own devices and trading tips online, while startups are bringing out consumer products. With that as the backdrop, a group of neuroscientists and manufacturers met in New York City on Sunday 28 August to discuss potential regulations for brain stimulation devices sold directly to consumers…The group’s guidelines will also recommend that people with neural or psychiatric conditions consult their physicians before using any brain stimulating gadget. That category includes people with conditions like depression, anxiety, and addiction, who are already turning to DIY treatments using homemade or commercially available tDCS rigs.” To learn more: Too early? Brain stimulation device Thync fails to get traction in the minds of consumers  Tran­scra­nial Direct Cur­rent Stim­u­la­tion (tDCS) as depres­sion treat­ment: much promise, some DIY risks 10 Neurotechnologies About to Transform Brain Enhancement and Brain Health Under what con­di­tions does brain train­ing work? from Sh...
Source: SharpBrains - Category: Neuroscience Authors: Tags: Cognitive Neuroscience Technology brain stimulation devices brain-stimulation brain-zapping FDA neurostimulation neurotechnologies Neurotechnology regulation tDCS Transcranial-direct-current-stimulation Source Type: blogs