Charleston, SCNCT05725239Now EnrollingIRB Ready

Depression Clinical Trial in Charleston, SC

Access cutting-edge depression treatment through this clinical trial at a research site in Charleston. Study-provided care at no cost to qualified participants.

Sponsored by Medical University of South Carolina

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Expert Care in Charleston

Access depression specialists at no cost

IRB Approved

This study follows strict safety protocols and ethical guidelines

No-Cost Care

All study-related depression treatment provided free

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Check if you qualify for this depression clinical trial in Charleston, SC

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Why Participate?

  • No-Cost Study Care

  • Local to Charleston

    Convenient for SC residents

  • Cutting-Edge Treatment

    Access to innovative therapies

  • Expert Medical Care

    Close monitoring by specialists

  • Possible Compensation*

    For time and travel

*Compensation varies by study. Confirm details with coordinator.

Simple Process

  1. 1Submit this form
  2. 2Phone screening
  3. 3Visit Charleston site if eligible
  4. 4Begin participation

About This Depression Study in Charleston

The purpose of the research is to test out a combined treatment for depression where the investigators stimulate a nerve in the ear while at the same time stimulate the brain with magnets. These treatments are called transcutaneous (through the skin) auricular (ear) vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) and transcranial (through the skull) magnetic stimulation (TMS). For participants who already have a cervical VNS device, the investigators will not change their treatment and will use this in place of the taVNS. The investigators think this combined method might treat depressive symptoms better than either alone. This study is in person at the Institute of Psychiatry in downtown Charleston on the MUSC campus. First, participants will have a screening session and then will have 6 treatment days total where participants will receive either VNS treatment alone, TMS treatment alone, or both at the same time. The treatment that participants start with will be randomized, and they will have 2 treatment days of each combination.

Sponsor: Medical University of South Carolina

Who Can Participate

Inclusion Criteria

18-75 years old
Undergoing cervical VNS or have tried and failed two antidepressant medications in the current episode
Able to provide informed consent
English speaking and can read and write
17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) score ≥20
Not responding to talking therapy.

Exclusion Criteria

Preexisting neurological disorders, or dementia
History of major head trauma
Life expectancy \<1 year
Any type of cognitive impairment that would require approval/signature of a legal guardian/representative for participation
A score of \>2 on question 3 of the Hamilton Depression Rating pertaining to suicidality
Current active suicidal intent or plan, prior attempt within the last 6 months, or who in the judgment of the investigator would be at elevated risk for suicide will be excluded
Patients who are pregnant will also be excluded. We will require a pregnancy test for individuals of child-bearing potential.

Not sure if you qualify? Submit your interest and a study coordinator will help determine your eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Is this study available in Charleston?

Yes, this clinical trial (NCT05725239) has an active research site in Charleston, SC that is currently enrolling participants.

Q:Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. This study has been reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals. You can withdraw at any time.

Q:Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time and travel expenses. Specific compensation details will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is provided at no cost.

Q:Can I leave the trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty.

Still have questions? Our study coordinators are here to help.

Depression Treatment Options in Charleston, SC

If you're searching for depression treatment options in Charleston, SC, this clinical trial (NCT05725239) may be an excellent opportunity. Clinical trials provide access to cutting-edge treatments that aren't yet available to the general public, often at no cost to participants.

Our Charleston research site is actively enrolling participants for this clinical trial. You'll receive care from experienced depression specialists who are at the forefront of medical research. All study-related care, including examinations, treatments, and monitoring, is provided at no cost to qualified participants.

Looking for more options? Browse all depression clinical trials near you to find additional studies recruiting in your area.

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Secure · Expert Care · Charleston, SC