Depression & Fibromyalgia
Research Study
Researchers at UCLA are conducting a study on Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for individuals living with pain and depression.
Fast Facts
Diagnosed With Depression & Fibromyalgia
18-75
Years Old
Free Clinical Research Treatment
Provided
Conducted at
Westwood, UCLA Campus
Study Background
Investigating a new approach to treat pain in depression.
This UCLA study is exploring how repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment, may help reduce chronic pain in people diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Researchers are particularly focused on understanding how stimulating specific areas of the brain may impact both mood and pain symptoms.
Participants in this sham-controlled, randomized trial will receive stimulation to one of two targeted locations on the left side of the brain. The treatment may involve a combination of active or sham stimulation, allowing researchers to compare effects across different groups. The goal is to better understand how targeted brain stimulation can benefit individuals who are struggling with both depression and chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia.
Study Background
Investigating a new approach to treat pain in depression.
This UCLA study is exploring how repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment, may help reduce chronic pain in people diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Researchers are particularly focused on understanding how stimulating specific areas of the brain may impact both mood and pain symptoms.
Participants in this sham-controlled, randomized trial will receive stimulation to one of two targeted locations on the left side of the brain. The treatment may involve a combination of active or sham stimulation, allowing researchers to compare effects across different groups. The goal is to better understand how targeted brain stimulation can benefit individuals who are struggling with both depression and chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia.
Additional Information
This study is being conducted to investigate whether rTMS can effectively treat chronic pain symptoms in individuals diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Inclusion Criteria:
- Diagnosed with depression and fibromyalgia
- Have been experiencing pain due to fibromyalgia for 3+ months
- Ages 18-75
- Fluent in English
- No neurological conditions (e.g., dementia, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury)
- Not currently pregnant
- No metal objects in your body that would prevent you from receiving an MRI (e.g., implants, pacemakers)
- Have not received transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) before
You will take part in daily weekday rTMS sessions over 6 weeks, undergo two MRI scans, two quantitative encephalography (qEEG) recordings, two blood draws, weekly mood and symptom surveys, and follow-up assessments at 1, 3, and 6 months. You will also complete one intake and one final visit involving additional testing.
Participants will receive free clinical research treatments and $150 for completing the study.
There is no cost for any of the research treatments or procedures.