Major Depression Research Study
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin and Dell Medical School are conducting a study on lumateperone for adults with Major Depressive Disorder and a history of early life trauma.
Fast Facts
Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
21-70
Years Old
Compensation
Provided up to $700
Conducted in
Austin, TX
Study Background
Early life trauma may affect how depression responds to treatment.
Major Depressive Disorder, also called MDD, is a common and serious condition. Research shows that people who experienced trauma early in life may have more difficulty getting relief from standard antidepressant treatments. Because of this, researchers are looking for additional treatment options that may better support this group.
This study is testing lumateperone, an FDA-approved medication for adults with MDD, to see whether it can reduce depression symptoms and affect certain brain pathways linked to threat and reward processing. MRI scans will help researchers understand how the brain may change during treatment and whether those changes relate to symptom improvement.
Study Background
Early life trauma may affect how depression responds to treatment.
Major Depressive Disorder, also called MDD, is a common and serious condition. Research shows that people who experienced trauma early in life may have more difficulty getting relief from standard antidepressant treatments. Because of this, researchers are looking for additional treatment options that may better support this group.
This study is testing lumateperone, an FDA-approved medication for adults with MDD, to see whether it can reduce depression symptoms and affect certain brain pathways linked to threat and reward processing. MRI scans will help researchers understand how the brain may change during treatment and whether those changes relate to symptom improvement.
Additional Information
This study is being done to learn whether lumateperone may help reduce depression symptoms in adults with MDD and early life trauma, and to better understand how the brain responds to treatment.
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.
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Are 21 to 70 years old
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Have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or may qualify during screening
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Have experienced early life or childhood trauma such as abuse, neglect, or major household stress
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Have been taking the same antidepressant dose for at least 6 weeks with limited improvement
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Are able and willing to complete MRI scans
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Are willing to stay on your current antidepressant during the study
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Can attend in-person visits in the Austin, Texas area
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No psychiatric conditions other than major depressive disorder
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No psychotic symptoms (e.g., hallucinations, delusions)
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If applicable, willing to use a medically-accepted form of birth control through the study’s duration
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Have never participated in a previous clinical trial that used lumateperone (an antipsychotic)
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Willing to try lumateperone (an antipsychotic) as part of this study
If you join the study, you will:
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Attend an in-person screening visit with health assessments, lab tests, and an MRI scan
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If eligible, take lumateperone by mouth once daily for 6 weeks
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Complete brief surveys on your mobile device twice each day during treatment
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Return for a final safety visit and MRI scan
As a participant, you may receive up to $700.
There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.