Mobile Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression
Portable Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in a Van for Treatment-Resistant Depression
This study is testing a new portable treatment for people with hard-to-treat depression to see if it can help them feel better while making it easier for them to access care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 4 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 22 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT06748209 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study aims to develop and test a portable Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) unit in a van, delivering treatment to patients with treatment-resistant major depression at three locations in South Carolina. The study will recruit up to 30 eligible patients who will receive accelerated TMS sessions over a two-week period. Investigators will assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of this mobile treatment approach, with the goal of improving access to TMS for patients who cannot access traditional treatment facilities. The findings will inform future research and potential widespread adoption of mobile TMS units.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 22-80 with treatment-resistant depression who can communicate in English and provide consent.
Not a fit: Patients with unstable medical conditions, ferromagnetic metal in the head, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly increase access to effective TMS treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression.
How similar studies have performed: While mobile TMS is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in improving access to mental health treatments.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adult (22-80 years old) * Have treatment-resistant depression as defined by the e-Mini, and the antidepressant treatment history form (ATHF short). * Be able to read and communicate in English. * Able to provide their own consent. * Access to a computer with videoconferencing ability for initial consent and telescreen. Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with unstable medical conditions that might make TMS unsafe. This includes current poorly controlled seizures. * Ferromagnetic metal in the head. * Pregnant. * Currently active substance abuse except tobacco.
Where this trial is running
Charleston, South Carolina
- Medical Univerity of South Carolina — Charleston, South Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Mark George, MD — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Mark S George, MD
- Email: GEORGEM@MUSC.EDU
- Phone: 8438765142
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.