ONE-D TMS + D-Cycloserine for Depression and Concussion

This trial tests a treatment combining transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with the medication d-cycloserine to assist female athletes with both depression and a history of concussions. Researchers aim to determine if this combination can improve symptoms of both conditions by targeting brain connectivity patterns. The trial includes female athletes, whether recreational or professional, who have experienced a concussion and have moderate depression unresponsive to standard antidepressants. Participants may experience a decrease in their depression and concussion symptoms. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering participants a chance to potentially benefit from an innovative approach.

The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are taking ototoxic medications (drugs that can damage the ear), you cannot participate in the trial.

Previous studies have shown that the ONE-D TMS treatment combined with D-cycloserine is safe and well-tolerated. Research indicates that this method effectively treats depression, with many individuals responding positively. For instance, one study found that nearly 90% of participants felt better within a week when using ONE-D TMS with D-cycloserine. Another study demonstrated that this treatment was not only effective but also easy for patients to manage. These findings suggest that the treatment is generally safe, with few side effects reported.¹²³⁴⁵

Unlike the standard treatments for depression and concussion, which typically involve medications like antidepressants or therapy, the ONE-D TMS treatment uses a unique approach. It combines transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with a single dose of d-cycloserine, a medication that acts as a neural primer. This combination not only targets the brain's neural circuits more directly but also may enhance the brain's plasticity, potentially leading to faster and more effective results. Researchers are excited because this method could offer a new avenue for those who haven't found success with existing therapies.

Research has shown that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can improve depression symptoms following a traumatic brain injury. Studies indicate that 50-60% of patients experience significant improvement, and 30-40% fully recover from depression after treatment with rTMS regimens like ONE-D. A large review of studies found that 36% of people receiving active TMS treatments went into remission, compared to just over 8% who did not receive active treatment. In this trial, participants will receive the ONE-D protocol, which includes a dose of D-cycloserine. Additional research suggests this combination may effectively treat depression and could also alleviate symptoms related to concussions.¹³⁶⁷⁸