Actively Recruiting
Accelerated High-Dose tDCS for Depression
Led by Medical University of South Carolina · Updated on 2026-05-12
20
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
32 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
M
Medical University of South Carolina
Lead Sponsor
N
National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
In this study, investigators are testing whether a higher dose of a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), can be safely used in people with depression. Participants will come to the Brain Stimulation Lab and receive mild electrical stimulation through electrodes placed on their scalp. The study begins with a safety run-in, where the first few participants will receive stimulation at gradually increasing levels (2, 4, and 6 milliamps) while being closely monitored. If no serious side effects are found, later participants will receive repeated 6 milliamp sessions for 5 days total. Investigators will check skin comfort, mood, and overall tolerability after each session.
CONDITIONS
Official Title
Accelerated High-Dose tDCS for Depression
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Ages 18-70
- Current diagnosis of major depressive disorder confirmed by MINI v7
- Baseline PHQ-9 score greater than 9
- Ability to provide informed consent
- Fluent in English
You will not qualify if you...
- Bipolar or psychotic disorder
- Primary anxiety disorders without major depression
- Current significant suicidal thoughts or behaviors requiring higher care
- Use of neuromodulation therapies (ECT, TMS, VNS) within past 6 months
- History of seizures, implanted cranial or cardiac metal, or neurosurgery
- Use of medications that lower seizure threshold
- Frequent or severe headaches
- History of head trauma, concussion, or traumatic brain injury
- Unable to perform consent due to catatonia or other reasons
- Current moderate to severe alcohol or substance use disorder
- Any skin abnormalities under electrode sites, including eczema, rashes, blisters, wounds, burns, cuts, irritation, or skin defects
- Pregnancy (urine test required for women who can become pregnant)
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
MUSC Brain Stimulation Lab
Charleston, South Carolina, United States, 29407
Actively Recruiting
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
1
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