Multiple Sclerosis study: Active tDCS
Official title Home-Based Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) for Depression in Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT06901687
What this study is testing
- What it's testing
- This study is testing whether a small electric device used at home can help reduce depression in people with MS. It compares real stimulation to a pretend treatment.
- Who it's for
- You may be able to join if you have multiple sclerosis and are having a major depressive episode.
- What's involved
- You will use a small device at home for 30 minutes a day, 30 days, while listening to guided meditation. You will also fill out questionnaires about your mood and MS symptoms.
- Time commitment
- The study lasts about a month, with daily 30‑minute sessions and regular online check‑ins to track your symptoms.
- Phase 2: a mid-size study of how well it works
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 65
You may be able to join if
- Age: 18-65 years (inclusive)
- Diagnosis: Confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), including relapsing-remitting or secondary progressive subtypes
- Stable Medications: Stable use of antidepressant and disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for at least 30 days prior to enrollment
- Stable Disease Activity: Defined as no clinical relapse, no new radiological disease activity, and no recent steroid treatment for at least 30 days...
- Provider Contact: Confirmed access to a local provider that has primary responsibility for the people' clinical care, and who is available for...
You likely can't join if
- Neurological or Medical Disorders: History of primary neurological disorder other than MS (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury...
- Substance Use: Nicotine use (e.g., smoking or vaping) within the past 6 months
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Currently pregnant, planning pregnancy during the study period, or breastfeeding.
- Seizure History: History of seizures or seizure disorder within the past 5 years
- Implanted Devices or Metal Objects: Presence of metal in the head/neck area (excluding dental fillings) or implanted medical devices (e.g...
- Skin Conditions: Active skin disorders or skin sensitivity near electrode application sites
See the full eligibility criteria
- Age: 18-65 years (inclusive)
- Diagnosis: Confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS), including relapsing-remitting or secondary progressive subtypes
- Stable Medications: Stable use of antidepressant and disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for at least 30 days prior to enrollment
- Stable Disease Activity: Defined as no clinical relapse, no new radiological disease activity, and no recent steroid treatment for at least 30 days prior to enrollment
- Provider Contact: Confirmed access to a local provider that has primary responsibility for the people' clinical care, and who is available for contact in case of increased subject risk due to depressive symptoms
- Technical Ability: Ability to use mobile devices and participate in remote, video-supervised sessions
- Neurological or Medical Disorders: History of primary neurological disorder other than MS (e.g., stroke, Parkinson's disease, traumatic brain injury (TBI), intracranial mass, epilepsy, mild cognitive impairment (MCI)...
- Substance Use: Nicotine use (e.g., smoking or vaping) within the past 6 months
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Currently pregnant, planning pregnancy during the study period, or breastfeeding.
- Seizure History: History of seizures or seizure disorder within the past 5 years
- Implanted Devices or Metal Objects: Presence of metal in the head/neck area (excluding dental fillings) or implanted medical devices (e.g., neurostimulators, pacemakers, defibrillators)
- Skin Conditions: Active skin disorders or skin sensitivity near electrode application sites
The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where it is enrolling
- New York, New York, 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 65 years. The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where is this trial taking place?
This study is enrolling now at New York, New York, 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.