Milken tDCS Study

Developing Brain Imaging Analysis Expertise for Personalizing Transcranial Electric Stimulation in Anhedonia Treatment of Patients with Bipolar Depression:

If you’re an adult, aged 18-50 years old with a diagnosis of bipolar disorder that is currently diagnosed with depression, you might qualify for the current tDCS trial.

tDCS is a popular type of non-invasive, non-surgical brain stimulation using a device that delivers low-level electrical currents to the outside of the scalp using electrodes. We are looking for participants who have symptoms of depression and anhedonia (loss of motivation or pleasure). We are assessing how well tDCS (transcranial Direct Current Stimulation) would work in relieving depressive symptoms and anhedonia associated with bipolar disorder.

In addition to the regular tDCS sessions, you will also receive two MRI scans, once prior to any tDCS sessions and once after the last session. You will have the chance to help us in our efforts to advance our knowledge about bipolar disorder as well as improve our approach in managing the condition.

This is a double-blind sham controlled trial, meaning you will be assigned to one of two groups:

• Active stimulation group: Receiving active tDCS stimulation.
• Sham stimulation group: Receiving sham tDCS stimulation, an inactive procedure that is designed to mimic as closely as possible the active stimulation.

The study involves 15 visits across 6 weeks.

Inclusion criteria:

• Age 18-50 years
• Diagnosis of bipolar disorder
• Currently depressed

This study compensates for your time and efforts. You would receive $50 for every session and MRI scan you complete. The total you can receive if you complete all study visits is $700.

If you are interested in participating, and think you might qualify, please contact the study team at:

Phone: (713) 486-MOOD / (713) 486-6663
Email: [email protected]