This 12-week study will evaluate the effectiveness of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) of the brain, followed by citalopram (Celexa®), for treatment of depression associated with small vascular lesions in the brain (vascular depression).
Vascular depression is a condition that typically affects the elderly and is associated with small vascular lesions. It is more resistant to treatment and has a poorer outcome than nonvascular depression. By altering excitability in the cortical area of the brain, rTMS may be an effective treatment neuropsychiatric conditions, particularly depression. Participants in this study will be randomly assigned to 15 treatments of either rTMS or sham rTMS for 3 weeks. Following treatment, participants will receive citalopram for 9 weeks. Response rates to treatment; relapse rates; the size, number, and location of the vascular lesions; and the amount of regional brain atrophy will be measured. Improvements in activities of daily living, quality of life, and cognitive function will also be also measured.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
TRIPLE
Enrollment
132
Participants will receive 15 treatments of rTMS over 3 weeks.
After completing treatment with rTMS or sham rTMS, participants will take citalopram for 9 weeks.
Participants will receive 15 treatments of sham rTMS over 3 weeks.
University of Iowa Health Care
Iowa City, Iowa, United States
Response rates to treatment; relapse rates; the size, number, and location of the vascular lesions; and the amount of regional brain atrophy
Time frame: Measured at Week 12
Improvements in activities of daily living, quality of life, and cognitive function
Time frame: Measured at Week 12
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.