Low Field Magnetic Stimulation: Imaging Biomarkers in Geriatric Bipolar Depression

Low Field Magnetic Stimulation: Imaging Biomarkers in Geriatric Bipolar Depression

The protocol involves functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging acquisitions immediately before and after Low Field Magnetic Stimulation treatment on two separate days in a sham controlled, randomized trial, in order to assess the physiologic effects of Low Field Magnetic Stimulation on brain function in a geriatric population with bipolar depression.

In this study, the investigators will examine changes in brain activity from Low Field Magnetic Stimulation in subjects over the age of 50 with bipolar disorder who are currently depressed using functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Following screening visits, study procedures include two visits, at least two weeks apart, during which subjects will complete brief mood scales, undergo up to 15 minutes of imaging, receive 20 minutes of Low Field Magnetic Stimulation treatment, and then return to the scanner to undergo up to 15 minutes of imaging procedures. Due to the crossover design, subjects receiving active treatment during the first visit will receive sham treatment during the second visit; subjects receiving sham treatment during the first visit will receive active treatment during the second visit. A follow-up phone call will occur at least two days after each imaging/treatment visit. The main endpoint of this study is the observation of changes in resting state functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging activity in post-treatment acquisitions as compared to pre-treatment acquisitions.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Subjects will have a diagnosis of Bipolar Disorder Type I or II, current episode depressed as measure by a MADRS ≥ 20.
2. Subjects must be maintained on a stable dose of all psychotropic medications for a period of at least two weeks prior to screening.
3. Subjects must be capable of providing informed consent.
4. Subjects must permanently reside within a 2-hour drive of McLean Hospital.
5. Subjects must be currently seen by a provider (psychiatrist, therapist, PCP) whose practice is within a 2-hour drive of McLean Hospital.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Dangerous or active suicidal ideation, as measured by the C-SSRS (see "Safety Measures" section), and physician evaluation.
2. Subjects meeting DSM-5 criteria for schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, or other psychotic disorders, or dementia.
3. Current mania as defined by a score of ≥ 10 on the Young Mania Rating Scale at screening.
4. Subject has an MMSE score ≤ 24.
5. Subject is pregnant or plans on becoming pregnant.
6. Subject has recent history (within 7 days of screening) of ECT or TMS treatment.
7. Subject has recent history of substance abuse (cannot meet DSM-5 criteria for substance abuse, no significant drug abuse within last 3 months, no history of dependence in last year, no drug use within last month, other than marijuana use).
8. Subject has any contraindication for MRI (i.e. Presence of a pacemaker, neurostimulator, or metal in head or neck).