Understanding cognitive impairment in depression treatment with ECT
Long-term Potentiation Disruption Underlying Cognitive Impairment in ECT
This study is trying to see how electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) affects memory and learning in people with major depression or bipolar disorder by measuring brain activity before and after treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 10 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of New Mexico Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Albuquerque, New Mexico) |
| Trial ID | NCT06733558 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study investigates the effects of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) on long-term potentiation (LTP) in patients with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder II. By measuring visual evoked potentials (VEPs) using electroencephalography (EEG) before and after ECT, researchers aim to understand how ECT influences cognitive functions such as memory and learning. The study employs a paired design to assess changes in brain activity related to LTP-like phenomena, which may help elucidate the cognitive side effects associated with ECT.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18-85 with major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder II who are clinically indicated for ECT.
Not a fit: Patients with defined neurological disorders, other psychiatric conditions, or substance use disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved understanding and management of cognitive impairments following ECT, enhancing patient care.
How similar studies have performed: While studies on ECT and cognitive effects exist, this specific approach using VEPs to assess LTP is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: * diagnosis of major depressive disorder (MDD; with or without psychotic features) or bipolar 2 most recent episode depressed; * clinical indications for ECT with right unilateral electrode placement including treatment resistance or a need for a rapid and definitive response, * age range adults 18-85 years, and * English-speaking (many of the neuropsychological tests are only available in English). Antidepressant medications will be continued as clinically indicated. To maintain feasibility and retention, as needed medications will be permitted for anxiety and insomnia. 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); * prisoners; and * pregnancy (pre- menopausal participants will receive pregnancy test, which is clinically indicated for ECT and not part of study protocol).
Where this trial is running
Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Domenici Hall — Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Danielle C Farrar, MD, PhD
- Email: dfarrar@salud.unm.edu
- Phone: 888-899-6092
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.