Researchers have developed a transcranial stimulation device that can be used at home and reduces symptoms of depression.
- Researchers have invented a device that delivers direct stimulation to the brain to treat depression at home.
- Trial results show the machine is a safe and effective way to treat the disease.
- The group that benefited from the device recorded a remission rate of 44.9%. It was 21.8% in the control group.
Transcranial direct current stimulation is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has proven effective in the treatment of several health problems such as chronic pain, cognitive decline, post-stroke lesions, addictive or psychological disorders.
This technology could soon be coming to your home. Researchers from King’s College London, University of East London and University of Texas Health Science Center (Houston) have developed a device, based on this type of brain stimulation, which can be used at home. Their testing showed it was safe and effective for treating depression at home.
Brain stimulation headset and depression: a remission rate of 44.9%
“The headset is designed in a way that allows the user to continue doing their daily tasks”explains Rachel Woodham, first author in a press release. The device applies a low direct current of between 0.5 and 2 milliamps to the scalp via electrodes.
To test its effectiveness, researchers brought together 174 adults who had been diagnosed with at least moderate depression. All volunteers received the device. If half of them had a model that actually delivered current, the others had a machine that did not provide any.
Participants were initially asked to complete five 30-minute sessions per week at home for the first three weeks, then three 30-minute sessions per week for the next seven weeks.
Analysis of the data shows that people who had the device that worked had significant improvements in the severity of their depression. Additionally, their clinical response and remission of the disorder were up to three times higher with the operational headset. For example, the remission rate was 44.9% with the active machine compared to 21.8% for those who had the inactive one.
Brain stimulation at home: a reliable and safe option
Faced with their results published in Nature Medicineresearchers conclude that their at-home brain stimulation device is safe and effective for people with depression.
“The burden of depression is most felt by the 280 million people worldwide who are currently managing their symptoms. While a combination of antidepressants and therapy is generally effective for many patients, medications can have side effects. side effects that some may find disruptive. Our study demonstrated that tDCS is a potential first-line option that could help those who need it.”assures Professor Cynthia Fu, lead author of the study.
