Effect of Self-administered tDCS in Patients With MDD

Effect of Self-administered Transcranial Direct Stimulation in Patients With Major Depressive Disorder: A Prospective, Randomized, Single-blinded Clinical Trial

In this randomized, single-blinded clinical trial, 58 patients with major depressive disorder were assigned to active and sham tDCS stimulation groups in a 1:1 ratio, and treatment responses were evaluated biweekly over six weeks.

Patients were randomized to receive either real or sham-tDCS as well as anti-depressant drugs. tDCS was applied over the left (anode) and right (cathode) dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). Patients visited the hospital to get tDCS administrations 5 days a week for 2 weeks. They were evaluated every 2 weeks.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Has a diagnosis of a major depressive disorder as confirmed by the SCID-IV and MINI (without psychotic features)
• Greater than 22 points of Montgomery-Asberg Depression Rating Scale
• Aged 19 to 65.
• Has provided informed consent
• Has received Escitalopram as a combined antidepressant during the study period

Exclusion Criteria:

• Has other mental disorders diagnosed by Axis-I, except major depressive disorder (However, subject who is diagnosed as both major depressive disorder as well as anxiety disorder can participate the study.)
• History of suicidal attempt in the last 6 months
• Diagnosed with bipolar or psychotic major depressive disorder
• Diagnosed with other depressive disorders: dysthymic disorder, and depressive disorders that are not elsewhere classified.
• Has hypersensitivity to Escitalopram ingredients
• A score of 5 or greater for the question #10 in MADRS
• Diagnosed with closed angle glaucoma or has a history of glaucoma.
• History of participation in other clinical trials within 30days.
• A major and/or unstable medical or neurologic illness
• Currently taking substances pimozide
• Pregnant or has a positive pregnancy serum test.