Comparing Magnetic Seizure Therapy and Electroconvulsive Therapy for Major Depression

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effectiveness of Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST) compared to Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) in treating Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either MST or ECT over a 12-session intervention period, followed by a 12-week observation phase. The study aims to evaluate the efficacy, tolerability, cognitive side effects, and neurophysiological biomarkers associated with both treatments. Clinical observations and EEG/ECG recordings will be conducted to assess outcomes throughout the trial.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Participants must meet the diagnostic criteria for MDD as outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5).
* Participants must have a baseline score of 18 or higher on the 24-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS-24).
* During the trial's treatment period, participants must be using a single antidepressant medication at a stable dose.
* Participants must be between the ages of 18 and 65 years.
* Informed consent from both parents and legal guardians is required.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Individuals with current or history of organic brain disorders or neurological disorders will be excluded from the study.
* Participants with a Wechsler Abbreviated Scale of Intelligence (WASI) score of less than 70 will be excluded.
* Individuals currently taking antiepileptic drugs, benzodiazepines, or other medications that may affect seizure activity will be excluded from the study.
* Those with exposure to ECT, modified ECT, MST, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS), or other neurostimulation treatments in last 6 months will be excluded.
* Individuals with cochlear implants, cardiac pacemakers, implanted devices, or metal in the brain will be excluded from participation.
* Pregnant or lactating individuals will be excluded from the study.
* Individuals currently participating in another concurrent clinical trial will not be eligible for inclusion.
* Participants who refuse to provide informed consent to participate in the trial will be excluded.
* Other circumstances deemed unsuitable for participation by researchers will result in exclusion.

Where it's running

• Shanghai Mental Health Center
  Shanghai, Shanghai Municipality, China Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: TianHong Zhang, Doctor — Shanghai Mental Health Center
• Study coordinator: TianHong Zhang, Doctor
• Email: zhang_tianhong@126.com
• Phone: 13127577024

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.