Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 50 and up

Personalized ECT for better depression treatment outcomes

Official title: Amplitude Titration to Improve ECT Clinical Outcomes Randomized Clinical Trial

Run by University of New Mexico · NCT05699226 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing if adjusting the strength of ECT treatment for depression can help older adults feel better and think more clearly compared to using a standard strength.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages50 Years and up
SexAll
Enrollment50 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of New Mexico
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Albuquerque, New Mexico)
StatusRecruiting
StartedSeptember 14, 2023
Main results expectedJanuary 1, 2027
Study endsJanuary 1, 2028
Registry record updatedJanuary 26, 2026
Trial IDNCT05699226 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are older adults diagnosed with major depressive disorder or bipolar II who are clinically indicated for ECT.

Probably not a fit

Patients with defined neurological disorders, other psychiatric conditions, or contraindications to MRI may not benefit from this study.

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

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effects of individualized amplitude ECT versus fixed 800 mA ECT on depression and cognitive outcomes in older adults. Participants will undergo baseline assessments before receiving ECT treatments, with evaluations conducted at multiple time points to measure antidepressant response and cognitive function. The study hypothesizes that personalized amplitude adjustments will lead to improved treatment efficacy and reduced cognitive impairment compared to traditional fixed dosing. A total of 50 subjects will be enrolled, with assessments focusing on neuroplasticity and clinical outcomes.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to more effective and safer ECT treatments for older patients with depression.

How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in optimizing ECT dosing based on individual patient characteristics.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of major depressive disorder or bipolar II
* Clinical indications for ECT with right unilateral electrode placement

Exclusion Criteria:

* Defined neurological or neurodegenerative disorder (e.g., traumatic brain injury, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease)
* Other psychiatric conditions (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar I disorder)
* Current drug or alcohol use disorder (except for nicotine)
* Contraindications to MRI.

Where it's running

  • University of New Mexico Health Science Center
    Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.