The present project aims to assess the neurocognitive impact of a two-week once-a-day regimen of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) compared to sham iTBS, when targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (LDLPFC) in clinically depressed outpatients. The study investigates the relationships between changes in cerebral measures and cognitive performance on an N-back task in relation to the antidepressive effect following iTBS.
Patients must meet the diagnostic criteria of at least a moderate depression
The duration of the current depressive episode must have lasted more than 2 weeks but less than 2 years
Drug therapy must have been stable for the last three weeks prior to the first treatment day with iTBS
Patients must volunteer to provide informed consent, be able to follow the treatment schedule and have a satisfactory safety screening for iTBS and MRI
The current depressive episode is in the mild range
The current episode fulfills the criteria for a major depressive episode requiring inpatient treatment and/or electroconvulsive therapy,
The current depressive episode is clearly triggered by grief or a recent major stressful life event
Bipolar disorder
University Hospital of North Norway
Lead sponsor
UiT The Arctic University of Norway
Collaborator