Accelerated High-Dose tDCS for Depression

Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age18-70
SponsorMedical University of South Carolina

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

20 Participants
are divided into 1 treatment group

Locations

1
MUSC Brain Stimulation Lab29407, CharlestonSouth Carolina, United States

Sponsors and collaborators

Medical University of South Carolina

Lead sponsor

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)

Collaborator