NCT06805851 · Penn State University
Impact of Depression on Thermoregulation
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to determine if, compared to non-depressed adults, differences exist in skin blood flow and sweating responses to passive heat stress in adults with clinically diagnosed depression, those with depression who are prescribed and taking SSRIs and those with depression who are prescribed and taking SNRIs.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to determine if, compared to non-depressed adults, differences exist in skin blood flow and sweating responses to passive heat stress in adults with clinically diagnosed depression, those with depression who are prescribed and taking SSRIs and those with depression who are prescribed and taking SNRIs.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Non-depressed adults aged 18-40 years;
- OR adults aged 18-40 years with clinically diagnosed major depressive disorder according to DSM-V criteria not currently receiving antidepressant treatment;
- OR adults aged 18-40 years with clinically diagnosed major depressive disorder with at least 2 weeks of treatment with a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor;
- OR aged 18-40 years adults with clinically diagnosed major depressive disorder with at least 2 weeks of treatment with a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor;
- All participants will be asymptomatic and no signs/symptoms of disease according to the American College of Sports Medicine 10th edition Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription (chest pain or pressure, dizziness, joint pain, and signs of cardiovascular disease);
- Systolic blood pressure 140 mmHg and diastolic pressure 90 mmHg at screening;
- Non-diabetic
- Not taking any other medications that might affect the physiological variables of interest (beta blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, antipyretics, diuretics, etc.);;
- Between the 20th and 80th percentiles for sex- and age-appropriate VO2max according to the American College of Sports Medicine 10th edition Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription;
- English proficiency;
- Capable of providing informed consent.
Exclusion criteria
- Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the next 12 months;
- Concurrently participate in another study involving physical activity or weight loss;
- Plan to have surgery or relocate outside the area within the next year;
- Medications that could alter cardiovascular or thermoregulatory responses to exercise (beta blockers, antipyretics, tricyclic antidepressants, diuretics, etc.);
- Allergy to latex or adhesive;
- Tobacco use;
- Illegal/recreational drug use;
- Exertional chest pain or musculoskeletal pain;
- Contraindications to a maximal exercise test or an indication for early termination of the exercise test according to the American College of Sports Medicine 10th edition Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription;
- Abnormal resting or exercise electrocardiogram (ECG);
- Any bleeding disorders, gastric ulcers, allergies to NSAIDS, asthma, kidney/liver disorders, and taking any other anticoagulants;
- History of Crohn's disease, diverticulitis, or similar gastrointestinal disease;
- Co-morbid psychiatric disorders (psychosis, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, etc.);
- Active suicidal ideation (moderate or high suicidality);
- Use of psychoactive or psychopharmacological drugs other than SSRI and SNRIs within one year of participating.
Where
- University Park, Pennsylvania
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Feb 3, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations