Using brain stimulation to treat depression after a stroke

Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Post Stroke Depression

NA · Riphah International University · NCT06598670

This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help stroke survivors who are dealing with depression feel better and improve their quality of life.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment56 (estimated)
Ages25 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University (other)
Locations1 site (Rawalpindi, Punjab)
Trial IDNCT06598670 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research aims to investigate the effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in treating post-stroke depression (PSD) among stroke survivors. The study will involve a large sample size and a rigorous randomized controlled trial design to assess the impact of tDCS on depression, cognitive function, and quality of life. It will also explore the optimal stimulation protocols necessary for achieving the best therapeutic outcomes. The study addresses a significant gap in existing research by focusing on the combined effects of PSD and cognitive decline on stroke survivors' overall well-being.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are stroke survivors who have experienced depression for more than six months and have been diagnosed with mild to moderate depression.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurological or psychiatric conditions, or those with medical conditions such as cardiac arrhythmias or metal implants, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the mental health and quality of life for stroke survivors suffering from depression.

How similar studies have performed: While there is evidence supporting the use of non-invasive brain stimulation techniques like tDCS for treating depression, this specific application in post-stroke depression is still being explored and may be considered novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Stroke for more than 6 months Both gender with equal ratio on stroke severity basis Depression diagnosed by Psychiatrist Mild and moderate Depression at PHQ-9 National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) for severity level; Mild (1-4), Moderate (5-15), Moderate to Severe (16-20), Severe (21-42)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Any medical condition like cardiac arrhythmias, uncontrolled hypertension. Individual with any pacemaker and metal implant in body. Patient with any other neurological and psychiatric condition.

Where this trial is running

Rawalpindi, Punjab

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Post-stroke Depression, Stroke, depression, transcranial direct current stimulation

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.