Using rTMS to treat depression after COVID-19

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 clinical trial investigates the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on patients experiencing depression following COVID-19 infection. The study is randomized and double-blinded, aiming to determine whether rTMS can alleviate affective symptoms that persist for more than 12 weeks post-infection. Participants will be assessed for their depression levels using the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale, and will either receive active rTMS treatment or a sham treatment for comparison. The trial seeks to address the limited therapeutic options available for post-COVID depression.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion:

* Informed Consent as documented by signature
* Age between 18-65 years
* Proof of past COVID-19 infection by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test or serology
* Negative COVID- 19 PCR test at the time of inclusion
* Affective symptoms (≥ 15 points on the Montgomery- Åsberg Depression Rating Scale) lasting for more than 12 weeks since COVID-19 infection
* No psychiatric history prior to the COVID-19 infection
* No major somatic comorbidities or substance use disorder

Exclusion:

* Contraindications to the rTMS treatment e.g. cochlear implants and metallic devices close to the TMS coil, a history of strokes, head injuries or seizures/epilepsy
* Epileptiform potentials in the electroencephalogram (EEG)
* Previous rTMS prior to the study
* Known severe hypersensitivity or severe adverse reaction to rTMS
* Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding
* Intention to become pregnant during the course of the study
* Psychiatric history prior to the COVID-19 infection
* Major somatic comorbidities e.g. renal failure, hepatic dysfunction, heart failure, cardiovascular disease.
* If the participant took antidepressants before the beginning of the study, there needs to be a washout period. The antidepressant has to be stopped for at least 3 weeks before commencing the study.
* The following drugs are not allowed during the study: any antidepressants, any antipsychotics, any drugs that lower the seizure threshold
* Known or suspected non-compliance, drug or alcohol abuse
* Inability to follow the procedures of the study, e.g. due to language problems
* Participation in another study with investigational treatment within the 30 days preceding and during the present study
* Enrolment of the investigator, his/her family members, employees and other dependent persons

Where it's running

• Psychiatric University Hospital Zurich
  Zurich, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Flurin Cathomas, PD Dr. med.
• Email: flurin.cathomas@pukzh.ch
• Phone: +41583843435

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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.