rTMS for Apathy Clinical Trial
This study is for people who have memory problems, like those with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias, and are experiencing a common symptom called apathy. Apathy means a lack of interest or enthusiasm in daily activities. We're testing a treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), which uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain. We want to see if rTMS can help reduce apathy. The study will look at people who are already taking a medication called methylphenidate for apathy, as well as those who are not taking any medication for apathy. The goal is to understand if rTMS can be an effective way to improve this challenging symptom.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Many people with memory problems or conditions like Alzheimer's disease can experience something called apathy. This isn't just feeling sad; it means a general lack of interest, enthusiasm, and motivation. It can make everyday life much harder, both for the person experiencing it and for their families and carers. Because it's such a common and difficult symptom, researchers are always looking for better ways to help.
This study is investigating a treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, or rTMS for short. This is a non-invasive treatment, meaning it doesn't involve surgery. Instead, a device is placed on the head that delivers magnetic pulses to specific areas of the brain. These pulses can change how brain cells work. Another treatment for apathy is a medication called methylphenidate.
The main purpose of this study is to see if rTMS can help improve apathy in people who have memory issues or early signs of dementia. We will be looking at how well rTMS works in two groups: people who are already taking methylphenidate, and people who are not currently taking any medication for their apathy. This will help us understand if rTMS could be a useful treatment option for more people.
Key takeaways
- Researches look into rTMS for apathy in people with memory issues.
- Apathy means lacking interest or enthusiasm.
- rTMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain.
- The study includes those taking or not taking methylphenidate for apathy.
- Aims to find out if rTMS can improve apathy.
- Your care partner's involvement is important.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you would need to have certain memory or thinking problems, such as mild changes in your behaviour or memory, or a known diagnosis of dementia. A key requirement is that you must have been experiencing apathy, which is a lack of interest or enthusiasm, for at least four weeks.
It's important that any medications you take that could affect your thinking or behaviour have been at a steady dose for over four weeks. Also, you would need to have a care partner or family member who spends at least 10 hours a week with you and can help with information for the study.
There are also some reasons why you might not be able to join. For example, if you are currently experiencing a major depressive episode, have problems with agitation, delusions, or hallucinations, or are taking certain stimulant medications. If you have had certain brain conditions like Tourette's syndrome or motor tics, or if you have any medical conditions that would make rTMS treatment unsafe for you, you would not be able to take part. Finally, if you are already involved in another clinical trial, you wouldn't be able to join this one.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Do I have memory problems, like early dementia or mild behavioural changes?
- Have I been feeling a lack of interest or enthusiasm (apathy) for at least a month?
- Is a family member or friend available to support me and spend at least 10 hours a week with me?
- Have any medications I take for my thinking or behaviour been at the same dose for over 4 weeks?
- Am I NOT currently experiencing severe depression, agitation, or seeing/hearing things that aren't there?
- Do I NOT have any medical devices in my head or other reasons that would prevent me from having magnetic stimulation?
What does participation involve?
Details about what taking part in this study involves will be given to you by the study team. Generally, you can expect to have a screening visit to make sure the study is right for you. If you are eligible, you will then attend several visits for rTMS treatment sessions and assessments. These assessments will involve talking to the study team and possibly some questionnaires to track changes in your apathy and other symptoms. You might also have regular check-ups to monitor your health. The total duration of your participation in the study will be explained in full by the research team.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences CentreVerified postcodeToronto, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is apathy?
Apathy means a lack of interest, enthusiasm, and motivation in daily activities.
What is rTMS?
rTMS is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain.
Who can join this study?
Adults with memory problems or mild behavioural changes who have apathy are being considered.
Will I have to stop my current medication?
No, your current medications that affect thinking or behaviour need to be stable for at least 4 weeks.
Is rTMS painful?
Most people find rTMS treatment tolerable, though you might feel a tapping sensation on your scalp.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
Discussion
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