rTMS Apathy Clinical Trial (REACT)

Interventional Study

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What is the study about?

Apathy is a common, early, and disabling symptom in dementias such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and is characterized by lack of interest and enthusiasm. Both repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a form of non-invasive brain stimulation, and methylphenidate, a medication, have been shown to improve apathy. This pilot study will investigate rTMS as a treatment for apathy in AD in individuals receiving methylphenidate and individuals not receiving medication for apathy.

 

Eligibility- Who can participate?

Participants must:

  • Have a diagnosis of AD or mixed AD/vascular disease
  • Have a care partner who spends at least 10 hours a week with the participant
  • Have apathy

Time requirement

There will be 3 study assessments and 2 optional MRI visits over the course of approximately 10 weeks. This includes a baseline visit, endpoint visit and an 8-week follow-up visit. At these 3 visits, blood is drawn and memory and behavior are assessed. Participants will receive rTMS for 10 sessions over two weeks at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre.

 

TDRA study investigator

Dr. Krista Lanctôt

Dr. Sandra Black

Dr. Giovanni Marotta

Dr. Mark Rapoport

Dr. Damien Gallagher

TDRA Site:

Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre

Address: 2075 Bayview Ave, Toronto, ON M4N 3M5

Age Group:

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Target Population:

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Disclaimer

The listing of a study on the Toronto Dementia Network (TDN) is for informational purposes only. The safety, efficacy or scientific validity of the studies listed here have not been evaluated by The Alzheimer Society of Toronto (AST) or the Toronto Dementia Research Alliance (TDRA). The TDRA is an academic coalition among the University of Toronto and four memory clinics across Toronto at Baycrest, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and the University Health Network. The information collected will be kept and guarded by TDRA. Choosing to participate in a study is an important personal decision. Before you participate in a study, you should make sure you understand the risks and potential benefits and discuss all options with your health care provider(s).