Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, affecting over 300 million people across the globe. In the United States, 1 in 10 adults suffer from depression in any given year. These are disturbing statistics on their own, but depression is also the main reason for suicide, so these statistics are also frightening.The bad news is that 30% of people with depression are unable to find relief despite trying numerous combinations of medications and therapies. These people suffer from what doctors call treatment-resistant depression (TRD), and their quality of life suffers because of it. Some recent breakthroughs in depression research, however, have shown promise in the treatment of TRD. They include:
Esketamine
In 2019, the FDA approved Esketamine, a ketamine-derivative nasal spray, for the treatment of TRD. Depression research has shown that ketamine, which has a history as a party drug for its short-term hallucinatory and dissociative effects, has therapeutic effects on regions of the brain that control mood and behavior. Many people who have suffered from depression for decades experience life-changing results with an Esketamine treatment series. Esketamine nasal spray must be administered in a healthcare setting and followed by a 2-hour observation period to monitor the patient for potential side effects. Esketamine is typically prescribed in combination with an oral antidepressant.
Deep brain stimulation
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) involves the surgical implantation of a small device (an electrode) into a specific region of the brain. The electrode is described as a pacemaker for the brain. It delivers a low level electrical impulse that helps to regulate mood and alleviate symptoms in those with severe treatment resistant depression. DBS is highly individualized, and neurologists work collaboratively with patients to ensure that the electrical impulses are at a comfortable and effective setting. Patients are able to control the impulses with an external remote control.
The technology is showing promise in the treatment of TRD, and it continues to improve rapidly. UCSF Health physicians are currently studying a new DBS device that is able to pick up on brain activity that signals the onset of symptoms and respond to it with on-demand immediate therapy. FDA approval is still underway.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation
Similar to DBS, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) aims to stimulate certain areas of the brain in order to regulate mood. TMS, however, is non-invasive and does not involve surgery of any kind. Instead, it focuses powerful magnetic energy on areas of the brain involved in depression. The patient sits in a comfortable chair while a device with a stimulating coil is strategically placed on the head. Short pulses of magnetic energy are directed at the limbic system structures, which are thought to control emotional and behavioral patterns. The pulses trigger electrical charges, causing neurons to become active. Blood flow to the area increases, and over time, gray matter density increases as well. Sessions typically last around 20-40 minutes and are conducted daily for 4-6 weeks. Most people report increased energy, focus, and motivation within a week or two. After a full treatment of 4-6 weeks, many people achieve full remission that lasts for over a year.
Every new depression treatment must undergo a series of clinical trials before it can be offered to the general public. When you participate in a depression clinical research study, you’re gaining access to some of the most advanced and innovative depression treatments available. You also get the satisfaction of contributing to the advancement of depression treatment for future generations.
Depression Clinical Research Studies in San Diego
Synergy Research Centers is currently enrolling depression clinical research studies for those with major depression disorder in San Diego. If you or someone you know suffers from depression and is seeking treatment, contact Synergy Research Centers at (888) 539-0282 today.
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- Source: https://www.synergyresearchcenters.com/latest-research-on-depression/