Using brain stimulation to treat depression in older adults

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 efficacy and safety of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as an additive treatment for elderly patients with late-life depression who have not responded to standard antidepressant therapy. Participants will receive either active tDCS or a sham treatment to assess improvements in depressive symptoms. The study aims to provide insights into the potential of tDCS as a safe and effective alternative for those who are resistant to or intolerant of traditional pharmacotherapy. The focus is on the prefrontal cortex, which is believed to play a crucial role in mood regulation.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Participants who meet the criteria of major depression defined by DSM-5 criteria
2. Participants will be non-responders and taking an antidepressant of adequate dose and for ≥4 weeks in the current episode which has not led to sufficient clinical improvement (defined as a minimum level of 2 on the ATHF); or can't tolerate the adverse effects of antidepressant in the current episode
3. Ambulatory participants with or without any aiding device

Exclusion Criteria:

1. An urgent risk of suicide or severe depression
2. A history of ineffectiveness with tDCS
3. People who are clinically contraindicated to receive tDCS intervention or MRI assessment, such as having any brain lesion, intracranial implants (clips, cochlear implants), a tattoo or metal embedded in their scalp or brain
4. Any instable medical condition
5. A history of epilepsy,
6. A history of substance use (within one year)
7. People with dementia or psychotic disorder.
8. Any condition which would make the subject unsuitable for the study under the physician's assessment.

Where it's running

• TaipeiVGH
  Taipei, Taiwan Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Mu-N Liu, PhD
• Email: liumuen@gmail.com
• Phone: 0938595767

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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.