Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) as an Adjunctive Treatment for Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD)

Launched by MAYO CLINIC · Jan 24, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a new treatment option for adults with Treatment Resistant Depression (TRD), which means their depression has not improved despite trying other treatments. The researchers want to see if a method called transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) can help these patients feel better while they are hospitalized. tDCS is a non-invasive technique that uses a small amount of electricity to stimulate parts of the brain. The study will also look at how well patients tolerate this treatment and whether certain biological markers can help predict how well they respond to it.

To take part in the trial, participants need to be 18 years or older, currently hospitalized for depression that hasn’t improved with previous treatments, and experiencing moderate to severe symptoms. They must be able to understand the study and agree to participate willingly. However, individuals with certain conditions, like bipolar disorder or a history of severe neurological issues, won't be eligible. Those who join can expect to receive tDCS treatment along with standard care, and they will be monitored closely to evaluate any changes in their depression and thinking abilities. It’s important to note that this trial is still recruiting participants, so there is an opportunity for eligible individuals to get involved in this promising research.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• • Inclusion Criteria
• • 18 years and older
• • Clinical diagnosis of treatment-resistant depression (defined as depression that does not remit following two or more treatment attempts of an adequate dose and duration of a minimum duration of 4 weeks)
• • Hospitalized in psychiatric units
• • Voluntary admission status
• • Moderate or severe depression, defined by PHQ-9 ≥ 15
• • Ability to provide informed consent
• • Ability to adhere to protocol
• • Exclusion Criteria
• • Bipolar disorder
• • Active primary psychotic or substance use disorders (except nicotine dependence) within the past year
• • Any active neurological condition (including seizure disorder, traumatic brain injury, stroke)
• • Contraindications to tDCS (including pacemaker, metallic implants in the head or neck \[except orthodontic hardware\], skin disease causing irritation)
• • Current pregnancy or positive urine pregnancy test (clinical)
• • Any neuromodulation therapy (including ECT, rTMS, DBS, VNS, TES) within the last 3 months