Transcranial Electrical Stimulation (TES) for the Treatment of Depression.

This study is a RCT of transcranial electrical stimulation in depressed patients. Mood, cognitive test performance and biomarkers will be measured during the trial.

Inclusion Criteria:

• DSM-IV Major Depressive Episode (as part of a Major Depressive Disorder or Bipolar Disorder), of minimum 4 weeks duration.
• MADRS score ≥ 20 at study entry.

Exclusion Criteria:

• DSM-IV psychotic disorder;
• drug or alcohol abuse or dependence (preceding 12 months);
• inadequate response to ECT (current episode of depression);
• anticonvulsant or benzodiazepine medication;
• rapid clinical response required, e.g. high suicide risk; clinically defined neurological disorder or insult;
• metal in the cranium, skull defects, or skin lesions on scalp (cuts, abrasions, rash) at proposed electrode sites;
• pregnancy.