Treatment of Apathy in Alzheimers and Mixed Dementia Using Methylphenidate and Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the combined treatment of methylphenidate and intermittent theta burst stimulation iTBS, a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, to treat apathy in individuals with Alzheimers disease or mixed Alzheimers and vascular dementia. This Phase 2 study focuses on whether this combination can effectively reduce apathy symptoms compared to iTBS alone. Participants have clinically significant apathy and are on stable psychotropic medication doses before joining. The study includes two groups one receiving both methylphenidate and iTBS, and the other receiving only iTBS without medication for apathy. Methylphenidate is given as a drug treatment, while iTBS is delivered using a device that applies repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation to the brain. Participants are already on methylphenidate before enrollment, and the treatments are monitored throughout the study. Participants will have their apathy levels measured using the Neuropsychiatric Inventory-Apathy NPI-A score after two weeks. Researchers will monitor symptoms, medication stability, and safety, including screening for conditions like epilepsy or metal implants that affect brain stimulation safety. Care partners who spend significant time with participants will support adherence. The study is expected to continue until October 2027, with careful evaluation of apathy changes and participant well-being.

Combined Brain Stimulation and Methylphenidate Treatment for Apathy in Dementia