NCT07657234 · Andre Russowsky Brunoni
tDCS for Late-Life Depression
What this study is about
The purpose of this research study is to determine the effectiveness of Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) therapy in the treatment of participants with Late-life depression (LLD).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this research study is to determine the effectiveness of Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) therapy in the treatment of participants with Late-life depression (LLD). The study will evaluate feasibility, safety, and tolerability of high-dose (6mA) bilateral tDCS delivered as three daily sessions, 3 times a week, for 3 weeks in older adults (60 y/o and older) with late-life depression.
Interventions
DEVICE
High-intensity (6 mA) transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
High-intensity (6 mA), spaced (three daily sessions, 3 times a week, for 3 weeks) transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in older adults (60 y/o and over) with Late-Life Depression
Primary outcome measures
Treatment Tolerability
Time frame: 6 weeks
The proportion of participants who tolerate 6mA across the entire treatment course without dose-limiting adverse events.
Treatment Feasibility
Time frame: 6 weeks
Completion Rate: The proportion of enrolled participants who complete 21 of 27 treatments over a 3-week period.
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
- Participants must meet all of the following criteria:
- age 60 years or older;
- diagnosis of unipolar major depressive disorder according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), confirmed by the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-5 (SCID-5);
- score of 16 or higher on the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomology-Clinician Rated (QIDS-C) at screening;
- stable antidepressant regimen for at least four weeks prior to enrollment, if applicable;
- willingness and capacity to provide informed consent;
- Clinical Dementia Rating scale of 0 or 0.5.
- availability of an informant who has sufficient knowledge of the participant's daily functioning as ascertained by the study team.
Exclusion criteria
- Participants meeting any of the following criteria will be excluded:
- contraindications to tDCS including metallic cranial implants, skin conditions at electrode sites (eczema, open wounds, burns, lesions), or history of adverse reaction to tDCS;
- contraindications to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) including pacemaker, cochlear implants, ferromagnetic implants, or claustrophobia;
- depressive disorder due to a medical condition;
- psychotic depression;
- history of seizures or epilepsy;
- bipolar disorder;
- psychotic disorders;
- severe personality disorder;
- active substance use disorder within the past six months or history of substance induced mood or psychotic disorder;
- neuromodulation treatment including electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), tDCS, or vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) within the past six months;
- active suicidal ideation with plan or intent requiring a higher level of care;
- concurrent use of medications that substantially lower seizure threshold;
- a clinically established diagnosis of dementia as reported in the participant's health record or scoring 1 or above on CDR;
- medically unstable in the clinical opinion of the principal investigators.
Where
- Dallas, Texas
Related conditions & keywords
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 Sep 25, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations