Propofol-Induced Sleep for Depression

This trial explores whether the drug propofol can improve sleep patterns and reduce symptoms in people with treatment-resistant depression. Participants will receive two infusions of propofol, typically used for sedation but potentially beneficial for sleep and mood. It suits individuals over 60 who have not responded to at least two different antidepressants. The study aims to determine if propofol can enhance sleep quality, potentially alleviating depression symptoms. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants a chance to be among the first to explore its potential benefits.

The trial requires that you do not use benzodiazepines over 2 mg/day, trazodone over 50 mg/day, or gabapentin over 600 mg/day. If you are taking these medications above these amounts, you may need to adjust your dosage.

Research has shown that propofol, a common anesthetic, is usually well-tolerated. In a small study involving patients with treatment-resistant depression, deep propofol anesthesia was feasible and did not cause major negative effects. Another study found that propofol can be safely used to improve deep sleep. Although this trial is in its early stages and requires caution, these findings suggest that propofol might be safe for humans. However, it is important to remember that these are early results, and more research is needed to confirm its safety.¹²³⁴⁵

Most treatments for depression, like antidepressants and psychotherapy, can take weeks to show effectiveness. But propofol, typically used as an anesthetic, has the potential to provide rapid relief by inducing deep sleep and altering brain wave activity. Researchers are excited because this approach could quickly reset brain circuits involved in depression, providing a new and fast-acting option for patients who don't respond to traditional treatments.

Research has shown that propofol, a common drug used to induce sleep during surgery, might quickly and effectively reduce depression symptoms. In this trial, participants will receive propofol infusions to explore its potential benefits for depression. One study found that six out of ten patients with treatment-resistant depression felt more than 50% better after receiving propofol. Another study reported a significant drop in depression scores, suggesting that propofol could be a promising option for those who haven't found relief with other depression therapies.¹³⁴⁶⁷