taVNS or TMS or Both for Depression (NCT05725239)
🩺 Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)
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.
Who can join: To join this study, participants generally need to meet the listed inclusion criteria (6 items) and avoid the listed exclusions (8 items).
Location: Medical University of South Carolina Institute of Psychiatry — Charleston, South Carolina
📋 "Do I Qualify?" — 1-Minute Self Screener
Instant ChecklistCheck every box below. If you can check all of them, you may meet the study's basic screening requirements (final eligibility is confirmed by the site team).
Usually NOT eligible if any of the following apply:
- Exclusion Criteria:
- 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
- A score of \>2 on question 3 of the Hamilton Depression Rating pertaining to suicidality
- Current active suicidal intent or plan, prior attempt within the last 6 months, or who in the judgment of the investigator would be at elevated risk for suicide will be excluded
- Patients who are pregnant will also be excluded. We will require a pregnancy test for individuals of child-bearing potential.
🔍 Extracted verbatim from the official NIH eligibility criteria. Always confirm with the study coordinator.
📍 All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)
- Medical University of South Carolina Institute of Psychiatry — Charleston, South Carolina
💰 Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights
- 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
- Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA § 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
- Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.