RESEARCH

The Penn Interventional Psychiatry Network at the University of Pennsylvania collaborates in various research studies that involve neuromodulation techniques. Please click on the studies below to see a brief description and the contact numbers. Note: Studies are subject to change and may become inactive.

Comparing Effectiveness of Aripiprazole Augmentation, rTMS Augmentation, and Switching to Venlafaxine XR in Treatment-Resistant Depression (ASCERTAIN-TRD)

This clinical research study is a multi-site, randomized, open-label study designed to help us compare the efficacy of three treatment options for depression: a) aripiprazole added to the current antidepressant, b) rTMS added to the current antidepressant, and c) switching to venlafaxine XR.

Investigation of Mood and Behavior Circuits through Personalized TMS and Neuroimaging

The purpose of this study is to implement and develop neuroimaging methods for characterizing and treating psychological disorders. By using TMS in concurrence with MRI, this procedure will help develop a comprehensive understanding of TMS effects on brain circuitry.

If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please contact the Center for Neuromodulation in Depression and Stress (CNDS) Lab at 215-746-2637 or send an e-mail to CNDSlab@mail.med.upenn.edu

Neuroimaging

Investigation of Aticaprant as Adjunctive Therapy in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

This is a double-blind placebo-controlled study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of aticaprant 10 mg in combination with an SSRI or SNRI. Participants will have the option to participate in a year-long open-label phase after completing the double-blind phase, which lasts 9- 11 weeks.

If interested or would like more information, please contact Jacob.mitchell1@pennmedicine.upenn.edu or by phone 215-746-6419.

(MDD)

Investigation of REL-1017 as an Adjunctive Treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

This is a double-blind placebo-controlled study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the investigation product REL-1017 (esmethadone) in combination with an antidepressant medication (ADT). The study length is 6-9 weeks.

If interested or would like more information, please contact Jacob.mitchell1@pennmedicine.upenn.edu or by phone 215-746-6419

Investigation of Lumateperone as Adjunctive Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

This is a double-blind placebo-controlled study to evaluate the safety and efficacy of the investigation product Lumateperone (Caplyta) in combination with an SSRI or SNRI. The study length is 7-9 weeks.

If interested or would like more information, please contact Jacob.mitchell1@pennmedicine.upenn.edu or by phone 215-746-6419.

Disorder (MDD)

Targeting Emotion Regulation in Bipolar Disorder with Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation: A Mechanistic Study

This is a randomized trial being conducted to examine the effects of accelerated intermittent theta-burst stimulation (aiTBS), a form of transcranial magnetic stimulation, on a new brain site, the inferior parietal lobe (IPL) in bipolar depressed patients. This project will recruit patients aged 22-65 with symptoms of bipolar depression who have failed (or not shown signs of improvement) after at least one prior treatment.

To learn more about the research being conducted at the CNDS, visit our website: https://www.med.upenn.edu/cnds/.

Please contact via email at cndslab@pennmedicine.upenn.edu or by phone 215-746-2637.

Complete our online screening form by going to the following website: https://is.gd/cndslab