About this trial
The purpose of the research is to test out a combined treatment for depression where the investigators stimulate a nerve in the ear while at the same time stimulate the brain with magnets. These treatments are called transcutaneous (through the skin) auricular (ear) vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) and transcranial (through the skull) magnetic stimulation (TMS). For participants who already have a cervical VNS device, the investigators will not change their treatment and will use this in place of the taVNS. The investigators think this combined method might treat depressive symptoms better than either alone. This study is in person at the Institute of Psychiatry in downtown Charleston on the MUSC campus. First, participants will have a screening session and then will have 6 treatment days total where participants will receive either VNS treatment alone, TMS treatment alone, or both at the same time. The treatment that participants start with will be randomized, and they will have 2 treatment days of each combination.
Eligibility criteria
Qualifiers
18-75 years old
Undergoing cervical VNS or have tried and failed two antidepressant medications in the current episode
Able to provide informed consent
English speaking and can read and write
Disqualifiers
Preexisting neurological disorders, or dementia
History of major head trauma
Life expectancy <1 year
Any type of cognitive impairment that would require approval/signature of a legal guardian/representative for participation
Trial design
Treatments tested in this trial
- Vagus Nerve Stimulation
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation