Comparing Electroconvulsive Therapy and Simulated Treatment for Severe Agitation in Alzheimer's Patients
A Randomized Controlled Trial of Electroconvulsive Therapy plus Usual Care versus Simulated-ECT plus Usual Care for the Acute Management of Severe Agitation in Alzheimer's Dementia (ECT-AD)
This study is looking at whether combining Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) with regular care can help reduce severe agitation in people with Alzheimer's dementia, and it's designed for those who want to find better ways to manage these challenging symptoms for both patients and their caregivers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10411985 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effectiveness of Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) combined with usual care compared to a simulated ECT treatment plus usual care for managing severe agitation in patients with Alzheimer's dementia. The study aims to assess the safety and feasibility of ECT, which is known to help with severe mood disorders, in alleviating agitation symptoms that significantly impact the quality of life for both patients and caregivers. Participants will be monitored for changes in behavior and overall well-being throughout the trial period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who experience severe agitation.
Not a fit: Patients with mild agitation or those who do not have a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for managing severe agitation in Alzheimer's patients, potentially improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that ECT can be effective for severe mood disorders, but its application for agitation in Alzheimer's patients is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
Belmont, United States
- Mclean Hospital — Belmont, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Forester, Brent Peter — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Forester, Brent Peter
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.