Ongoing, recruitingTherapeutic use (Phase IV)Interventional

The role of serotonin in learning and decision-making: a behavioural study

This research study, already in use for treatment (Phase IV), is exploring the connection between a brain chemical called serotonin and how we learn and make decisions. Participants will be given either a commonly used antidepressant, escitalopram (10mg), or a placebo (a tablet with no active medicine, like a sugar pill). After this, they will complete tasks that measure their accuracy and how quickly they respond. The main goal is to understand how these different pills, and therefore serotonin levels, affect your performance on a specific 'resource investment task'. Researchers will also look at how these pills affect performance on other tasks and collect information about individual characteristics through questionnaires. The study is open to adults aged 18 and over, of any gender.

At a glance

Status

Ongoing, recruiting

Phase

Therapeutic use (Phase IV)

Sponsor

Radboud Universiteit Nijmegen

Enrolment target

Start

22 Oct 2024

None

What is this study about?

This study is designed to help us better understand how a natural chemical in our brain, called serotonin, influences the way we learn and make choices every day. Serotonin is known to play a role in our mood and well-being, and this research aims to explore its impact on our thinking abilities, specifically how we process information and decide.

Participants in the study will be given one of two things: either a standard dose of a common antidepressant medication called escitalopram, or a 'dummy' pill known as a placebo. The placebo looks and feels just like the real medication but contains no active ingredients. This helps researchers figure out if any changes observed are truly due to the medicine or just the expectation of taking medicine. Afterward, participants will complete various tasks designed to measure their performance, looking at how accurate they are and how quickly they respond.

The main focus of the study is on a specific 'resource investment task' where we'll measure accuracy and reaction times. We'll also look at how people perform on other similar tasks and ask them to fill out questionnaires about their personal traits. By comparing the results from those who took escitalopram with those who took the placebo, researchers hope to gain valuable insights into serotonin’s role in our learning and decision-making processes.

Key takeaways

The study explores how the brain chemical serotonin affects learning and decision-making.
Participants will receive either escitalopram (an antidepressant) or a dummy pill (placebo).
You'll complete various computer tasks to measure accuracy and reaction times.
The main focus is on a 'resource investment task' and also other behavioural tasks.
The study is for adults aged 18 and over, of any gender.
It helps us understand brain function, without making medical recommendations.

Who may be eligible?

To join this study, you need to be an adult, aged 18 or older. There is no upper age limit, meaning older adults are also welcome to participate.

Both men and women are invited to take part in this research. The study aims to understand how serotonin affects a wide range of people, regardless of their gender.

There are no specific medical conditions that would prevent you from joining, but the research team will ask you questions to make sure the study is a good fit for you and safe for your health.

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.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Are you willing to take either a specific medication or a placebo?
Are you able to follow instructions for computer-based tasks?
Are you comfortable filling out questionnaires about yourself?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part in this study, you will be asked to visit the study site when it's convenient for you. During these visits, you will receive either the escitalopram medication or a placebo capsule. You will then complete several computer-based tasks that measure how accurately and quickly you respond. You will also fill out a series of questionnaires about your individual characteristics. The study does not mention the total duration or specific number of visits, but typically such studies involve a few sessions to complete the tasks and assessments.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study could help us learn more about how our brains work, which might indirectly benefit others in the future by improving our understanding of learning and decision-making. As with any medication, escitalopram has potential side effects, though typically at this low dose they are mild; the placebo has no active ingredients. All participants have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without it affecting their care or relationship with their doctor.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

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Unverified
Netherlands

Common questions

What is escitalopram?

Escitalopram is a medication commonly used to treat depression and anxiety. In this study, we're using a low dose (10mg) to understand its effects on brain function.

What is a placebo?

A placebo is a 'dummy' pill that looks just like the study medication but contains no active ingredients. It helps researchers understand if the medication's effects are real or due to other factors.

What kind of 'tasks' will I do?

You will be asked to complete computer-based tasks, including one called a 'resource investment task,' which involve making choices and responding quickly. We will measure your accuracy and response times.

Will I know if I'm getting the real medicine or the placebo?

No, this study is 'blinded,' meaning neither you nor the researchers will know whether you are receiving escitalopram or the placebo until the study is over. This helps ensure the results are accurate.

Is this study safe?

The study uses a well-known medication at a standard dose. All research studies carefully consider participant safety, and you will be monitored throughout your involvement.