FMRI-neurofeedback in Depression

Launched by MAASTRICHT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · Nov 28, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new treatment for people with depression. Researchers want to see if combining a special brain training technique called fMRI-neurofeedback with standard care can help reduce symptoms of depression more effectively than just standard care alone. During the study, participants will either receive regular treatment for depression or regular treatment plus five sessions of fMRI-neurofeedback training, which helps them learn to control certain brain activities. The severity of their depression will be measured before the treatment, right after, and again six months later.

To participate in this trial, individuals must have a diagnosis of depression and have been on stable antidepressant medication for at least four weeks. They should currently be experiencing moderate to severe depression. However, some people may not be eligible, such as those with certain medical devices or a history of severe mental health issues. If you or someone you know is interested, it’s important to talk to a healthcare provider to see if they qualify and to learn more about what to expect during the study.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of a depressive disorder (ICD-10: F32 or F33)
• • Has been on stable antidepressant medication (single or combination treatment) for at least 4 weeks
• • Current depression (QIDS \>= 17)
• • If required to meet recruitment targets the minimum entry score will be reduced QIDS \>= 13 (i.e. still corresponding to a moderate level of depression)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Exclusion criteria for MRI (e.g. cardiac pacemaker, certain metallic implants)
• • History of psychotic disorder bipolar disorder, or psychotic depression
• • Current use of illegal drugs (any in the last four weeks)
• • Current excessive alcohol consumption that interferes with daily functioning
• • History of neurological disease that could influence the fMRI signal and/or the anatomical alignment (e.g. territorial stroke, multiple sclerosis, brain tumour)