rTMS for Depression
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are using rapid-acting antidepressants like ketamine or have had a recent course of ECT, you may not be eligible to participate.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment for depression?
Research shows that intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) applied to the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) is effective in treating major depression, similar to traditional repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). Additionally, combining iTBS with low-frequency rTMS on the right DLPFC has been found to enhance treatment outcomes when added to standard medication.12345
Is rTMS safe for treating depression?
How is the rTMS treatment for depression unique compared to other treatments?
The rTMS treatment for depression is unique because it uses a specific pattern called intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) targeting the dorsomedial and left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, which can be as effective as traditional rTMS but is delivered in a shorter time frame, potentially making it more convenient for patients.12457
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study evaluates the antidepressant effects of an accelerated schedule of theta-burst stimulation, termed accelerated intermittent theta-burst stimulation (aiTBS), in individuals with borderline personality disorder (BPD) or trait and comorbid mood depressive disorder (MDD) or bipolar II disorder in a current mood depressive episode (MDE).
Research Team
Nolan Williams, MD
Principal Investigator
Stanford University
David Spiegel, MD
Principal Investigator
Stanford University
Eligibility Criteria
Adults aged 22-65 with Borderline Personality Disorder and a current depressive episode, who are in good health, TMS naive, agree to lifestyle guidelines, use effective contraception if applicable, can understand English for assessments/interventions. Excludes pregnant individuals or those with mania/psychosis, substance abuse issues, certain medical conditions like metal implants incompatible with MRI or history of seizures.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive accelerated intermittent theta-burst stimulation (aiTBS) over the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (L-DLPFC) or dorsomedial prefrontal cortex (DMPFC), or sham stimulation
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including assessment of suicidal behaviors and depression severity
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Dorsomedial Prefrontal Cortex (DMPFC)
- Left Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex (L-DLPFC)
- Sham Stimulation
Dorsomedial Prefrontal Cortex (DMPFC) is already approved in United States, Canada for the following indications:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Treatment-resistant depression
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Treatment-resistant depression
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Stanford University
Lead Sponsor