TMS for Depression

This trial tests a new schedule for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) to treat Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Typically, TMS involves 30 sessions over six weeks, but this study explores three sessions in one day. The trial compares the real treatment to a sham (fake) version to determine if the new schedule is safe and effective. It targets adults aged 22-85 who haven't responded to antidepressant medications in their current depressive episode. Participants must be fluent in English and have no recent changes in their depression treatments. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative treatment options for those seeking alternatives to traditional methods.

The trial requires that you do not change your antidepressant medications or psychotherapy from 4 weeks before joining the study until 2 weeks after the treatment ends.

Research has shown that Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is generally well-tolerated. Studies have found that both monophasic and biphasic TMS can reduce depression symptoms without major side effects, indicating the treatment's safety for most people.

This study uses the NeuroQore Square TMS system with a faster schedule. Participants will have three sessions in one day with breaks in between, instead of one session per day. Although this method is new, it employs the same TMS treatment that the FDA has approved for depression, providing some reassurance about its safety.

Most treatments for depression, like antidepressants or psychotherapy, can take weeks to show results. But researchers are excited about the NeuroQore Square TMS because it offers a new, accelerated approach. This treatment uses Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), which is non-invasive and targets specific brain regions involved in mood regulation. Unlike traditional TMS, this protocol is designed to deliver three sessions in a single day with breaks in between, potentially speeding up the response time. This could mean faster relief for people with depression, offering a promising alternative to slower-acting treatments.

Research has shown that Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) effectively treats Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Studies have found that TMS can greatly reduce depression symptoms. In this trial, participants will receive either the Active Accelerated Protocol or the Sham Accelerated Protocol. The NeuroQore Square TMS system, used in the Active Accelerated Protocol, employs a special rectangular pattern for its magnetic pulses. Early results suggest this method works as well as standard TMS treatments. This system combines the usual sessions into one day, potentially providing faster relief.¹⁴⁶⁷⁸