About this trial
In this study, investigators are testing whether a higher dose of a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), can be safely used in people with depression. Participants will come to the Brain Stimulation Lab and receive mild electrical stimulation through electrodes placed on their scalp.
The study begins with a safety run-in, where the first few participants will receive stimulation at gradually increasing levels (2, 4, and 6 milliamps) while being closely monitored. If no serious side effects are found, later participants will receive repeated 6 milliamp sessions for 5 days total. Investigators will check skin comfort, mood, and overall tolerability after each session.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
Ages 18-70.
Current MDD diagnosis (MINI v7).
Baseline PHQ-9 > 9.
Capacity to consent
Disqualifiers
Bipolar or psychotic disorder
Primary anxiety disorders without concomitant major depression as defined above
Current significant suicidal ideation or behaviors require a higher level of care.
Use of neuromodulation therapies (e.g., ECT, TMS, VNS) within the past 6 months.
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)
Treatment groups
Locations
1Sponsors and collaborators
Medical University of South Carolina
Lead sponsor
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Collaborator