Treatment of Depression Post-SCI

This is an interventional treatment trial for Depression Read More

Inclusion criteria:

1. Age 18 - 70;
2. At least 6 months post incomplete cervical or incomplete or complete thoracic level SCI;
3. Have at least partial active movement of the right thumb (abductor pollicis brevis) to allow for FDA approved rTMS dosing;
4. Major depressive disorder, as identified through screening tools;
5. No antidepressant medications or no change in doses of psychotropic medication(s) for at least 4 weeks prior to the study (6 weeks if newly initiated medication).

Exclusion criteria:

1. Concomitant neurologic diseases/disorders or dementia;
2. Cognitive impairment, as identified through a screening tool (Montreal Cognitive Assessment);
3. History of major head trauma as identified through a screening tool (Ohio State University Traumatic Brain Injury Identification Method);
4. History of psychosis or other Axis I disorder that is primary;
5. Positive screen for bipolar disorder, as identified through a screening tool (The Mood Disorder Questionnaire);
6. Life expectancy <1 year;
7. Attempt of suicide in the last 2 years;
8. Electronic or metallic implants (i.e. metal in the head, cochlear implant, or pacemaker);
9. History of seizures or currently prescribed anti-seizure medications;
10. Taking medication that increases the risk of seizures;
11. Pregnancy as identified through a positive pregnancy test;
12. Inability or unwillingness of subject or legal guardian/representative to give informed consent.