Treating Depression With Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

Depression Clinical Trial

Official title: Randomized, Double Blind Crossover Study of the Treatment of Major Depressive Episode With Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

Status Completed

Clinical Trial Summary

The purpose of this study is to see if transcranial direct current stimulation may improve the symptoms of depression.

Clinical Trial Description

The purpose of this study is to learn about a brain stimulating procedure called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS). In tDCS therapy, two moistened sponges are applied to the forehead while a small amount of electric current flows between them. These electrodes are placed on the head so that the electricity will pass through a region in the brain that is believed to contribute to depression. This study is intended to test the theory that the electromagnetic field created by the current may affect this region of the brain in a way that may improve the symptoms of depression. This may affect brain activity and function. ;

Study Design

Allocation: Randomized, Endpoint Classification: Safety/Efficacy Study, Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment, Masking: Double Blind (Subject, Investigator), Primary Purpose: Treatment

Related Conditions & MeSH terms

• Depression
• Depressive Disorder

• NCT number: NCT00481988
• Study type: Interventional
• Source: New York State Psychiatric Institute
• Status: Completed
• Phase: Phase 1/Phase 2
• Start date: March 2007
• Completion date: January 2011