Chronic Kidney Disease Research Study

Researchers at Stony Brook Medicine are conducting a study on treatment options for depression in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) who are not yet on dialysis.

Fast Facts

Diagnosed with Stage 3b, 4, or 5 Chronic Kidney Disease Have Not Started Dialysis Treatment

Not Currently Receiving Treatment (e.g., Therapy, Medication You Cannot Pause) for Depression

Compensation

Provided

Conducted in Long Island, Dallas, & Seattle (Fully Remote Option Available)

Study Background

Help us understand and treat symptoms that affect the quality of life in people living with kidney disease.

People living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) often report symptoms like fatigue, poor appetite, low motivation, and trouble sleeping. These symptoms are sometimes part of kidney disease — but they might also be signs of depression. Unfortunately, there’s not enough research to help doctors know how to treat these overlapping symptoms most effectively.

The CONCORD study is testing whether medication (Bupropion/Wellbutrin), teletherapy, or a combination of both can help improve these symptoms in people with CKD. If you join, you’ll be one of 200 participants helping us find better ways to support those living with kidney disease and symptoms of depression. 150 people across the U.S. have already joined us — we hope you’ll be part of the final 50 who help answer these important questions.

Study Background

Help us understand and treat symptoms that affect the quality of life in people living with kidney disease.

People living with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) often report symptoms like fatigue, poor appetite, low motivation, and trouble sleeping. These symptoms are sometimes part of kidney disease — but they might also be signs of depression. Unfortunately, there’s not enough research to help doctors know how to treat these overlapping symptoms most effectively.

The CONCORD study is testing whether medication (Bupropion/Wellbutrin), teletherapy, or a combination of both can help improve these symptoms in people with CKD. If you join, you’ll be one of 200 participants helping us find better ways to support those living with kidney disease and symptoms of depression. 150 people across the U.S. have already joined us — we hope you’ll be part of the final 50 who help answer these important questions.

Additional Information

People with CKD often experience symptoms like tiredness, loss of interest in daily life, poor appetite, and sleep issues. These may be related to their kidney condition, depression, or both — but we don’t yet know how to best treat these overlapping issues. This study aims to test whether medication, therapy, or both together can improve how people feel and function in daily life.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Diagnosed with stage 3b, 4, or 5 Chronic Kidney Disease
  • Have not started dialysis treatment
  • Not currently receiving treatment (e.g., therapy, medication you cannot pause) for depression
  • No past failure on Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
  • You’ll be asked to complete a few simple questionnaires and a screening call.

  • If eligible, you’ll be enrolled in a 16-week program.

  • You may receive a commonly prescribed medication (Bupropion/Wellbutrin), teletherapy, or a combination of both — all provided at no cost.

  • We’ll check in with you regularly to see how you’re doing.

  • You can participate completely remotely (we’ll mail the medication to you) or come into one of our study sites in Long Island, Dallas, or Seattle.

  • We can also provide you with a copy of your bloodwork if requested.

You’ll be compensated up to $200 for your time, and travel support is available if needed.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.