Effect of Bupropion on Seizure Threshold in Depressed Patients

• Status: Completed
• Trial end date: 2018-05-31
• Target enrollment: 0
• Participant gender: All

Summary

The purpose of the study is to examine the effect of bupropion on seizure threshold and duration in depressed patients receiving right unilateral ultra-brief electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The investigators plan to recruit 10 patients into the study, administer sustained release (SR) bupropion 4 hours prior to receiving ECT. The investigators plan to compare the seizure threshold and seizure durations between ECT sessions with and without bupropion administration. The study's implication is to examine how ECT can be optimized by rational combination with medications that lower seizure threshold.

• Phase: Phase 4
• Accepts Healthy Volunteers?: No

Details

• Lead Sponsor: Duke University
• Treatments: Bupropion

Criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Male and female subjects, age >18.

2. Meeting diagnostic criteria for major depressive disorder or bipolar disorder per DSM5.

3. Referred for ultra brief RUL ECT.

4. Right motor dominant.

5. Competent to provide informed consent.

6. Able to read or comprehend English.

7. H/O treatment with bupropion.

8. Concomitant treatment with benzodiazepines, dosing of which has remained stable for a week prior to study ECT session.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Lifetime history of schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, mental retardation, seizure disorder.

2. Current alcohol abuse or dependence within past 6 months.

3. Current substance abuse or dependence within past 6 months.

4. Recently received ECT within preceding 3-6 months.

5. Currently on any formulation of bupropion.

6. Currently on any anticonvulsants or clozapine.