Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Therapy for Major Depression
Last updated on July 2021Recruitment
- Recruitment Status
- Active, not recruiting
- Estimated Enrollment
- Same as current
Summary
- Conditions
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Type
- Interventional
- Phase
- Not Applicable
- Design
- Allocation: N/AIntervention Model: Single Group AssignmentMasking: None (Open Label)Primary Purpose: Treatment
Participation Requirements
- Age
- Between 18 years and 125 years
- Gender
- Both males and females
Description
The novel brain stimulation treatment, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), is a potential first-line treatment for major depression. tDCS generates a small electric current which modulates how easy it is for active brain cells to discharge. The device is a neoprene cap worn over the head...
The novel brain stimulation treatment, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), is a potential first-line treatment for major depression. tDCS generates a small electric current which modulates how easy it is for active brain cells to discharge. The device is a neoprene cap worn over the head, and in the cap there are two electrodes, which are small metal discs, where the current comes from. tDCS does not directly stimulate brain cells to cause a seizure like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) and it does not induce brain cells to discharge like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Clinical studies have shown that tDCS treatment could help to improve the symptoms of depression. The main side effects have been redness, skin irritation or sensations (itching, tingling or burning) under the electrodes. Less commonly reported side effects include headache or tiredness. tDCS is a portable and safe treatment. The studies to date have mostly looked at tDCS treatment which has been provided in a research setting. This is a problem because the treatment requires daily sessions for several weeks which could limit whether individuals would be able to go every day. As tDCS is a portable and safe treatment, it could be provided in the community. The study research question is whether tDCS could be provided as a home-based treatment for major depression. The study will include adults with major depression.
Tracking Information
- NCT #
- NCT03632434
- Collaborators
- Rosetrees Trust
- King's College London
- University College, London
- University of Oxford
- Investigators
- Principal Investigator: Cynthia Fu, MD PhD University of East London