Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Venlafaxine in Depression

Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Efficacy for Major Resistant Depression Compared or Associated With Venlafaxine : a Multicentric Study.

The purpose of this study is to assess the efficacy of add-on therapy with repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) and venlafaxine in the treatment of major depressive disorders compared to venlafaxine only (the optimal medication) and to rTMS only.

rTMS parameters : Intensity of 120% of individually determined motor threshold; frequency : 1 Hz; 360 impulsions; on period : 1 min; off period : 30 s.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults
• Clinical diagnosis of major depressive disorder (DSM-IV)
• HDRS-17 items > 20
• Failure of one antidepressant treatment (efficacious doses for 6 weeks at least)

Exclusion Criteria:

• I or II bipolar disorder
• Psychotic features
• Failure of one previous venlafaxine treatment
• Addiction comorbidity or schizophrenia comorbidity
• Involuntary hospitalization
• Seizures history
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Somatic comorbidity able to impact on cognitive functions