Clinical trial for Major Depressive Disorder
Official title Amygdala Neurofeedback for Depression - Large Scale Clinical Trial
ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05703256
What this study is testing
- What it's testing
- This study is testing whether real‑time fMRI neurofeedback training to boost amygdala response to happy memories works for major depressive disorder.
- Who it's for
- You may be able to join if you have major depressive disorder.
- What's involved
- You would sit in an MRI scanner and practice recalling happy memories while a computer shows your brain activity. You will do several training sessions.
- Time commitment
- The study lasts several weeks with multiple MRI visits.
Which group you join is decided by chance.
A plain-language read of the study's public ClinicalTrials.gov listing. The study team confirms the details.
Who can take part
Ages 18 to 55
You may be able to join if
- ages 18 - 55
- primary diagnosis of MDD and are currently depressed
- able to give written informed consent prior to participation
- unmedicated OR are stable on an antidepressant regime (at least 4 weeks to ensure symptoms are stable).
You likely can't join if
- clinically significant or unstable cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, neurological, gastrointestinal illness or unstable medical disorder
- Current severe DSM-V alcohol or substance use disorder, with the exception of nicotine or caffeine.
- history of traumatic brain injury
- unable to complete MRI scan due to claustrophobia or general MRI exclusions (e.g., shrapnel inside body)
- currently pregnant or breast feeding
- unable to complete questionnaires written in English
See the full eligibility criteria
- ages 18 - 55
- primary diagnosis of MDD and are currently depressed
- able to give written informed consent prior to participation
- unmedicated OR are stable on an antidepressant regime (at least 4 weeks to ensure symptoms are stable). Effective medications will not be discontinued for the purposes of the study.
- clinically significant or unstable cardiovascular, pulmonary, endocrine, neurological, gastrointestinal illness or unstable medical disorder
- Current severe DSM-V alcohol or substance use disorder, with the exception of nicotine or caffeine.
- history of traumatic brain injury
- unable to complete MRI scan due to claustrophobia or general MRI exclusions (e.g., shrapnel inside body)
- currently pregnant or breast feeding
- unable to complete questionnaires written in English
- current (within 3 weeks of testing) use of any antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, stimulants, benzodiazepines, beta-blockers, or other medications (except antidepressants) likely to influence cerebral blood flow.
- diagnosis of psychotic or organic mental disorder, bipolar I or II disorder.
- eye problems or difficulties in corrected vision.
The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where it is enrolling
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
Questions & answers
Do participants get paid in this trial?
This listing doesn't specify compensation. Many trials still reimburse travel or offer a stipend, so it's worth asking the study team when you connect.
Is it free to join, and do I need insurance?
Searching and applying through BridgeMD is free. In clinical trials the study-related treatment and visits are generally provided at no cost to you. You usually don't need insurance to take part, but confirm specifics with the study team.
How long does this study last?
The listing doesn't state an exact length. The study team walks you through the schedule and number of visits before you decide to enroll.
Who can join this trial?
This study is enrolling all sexes, 18 years to 55 years. The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where is this trial taking place?
This study is enrolling now at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States. Enter your location above to see the nearest enrolling site and check your eligibility.
Explore other conditions
BridgeMD is an information and trial-matching tool that is independent of the study sponsor. Details come from ClinicalTrials.gov. The study team decides eligibility, and your own doctor gives medical advice.