Magnetic Seizure Therapy for Schizophrenia (MAST Trial)

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

+1 other location

Overseen ByDaniel Blumberger, MD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May be covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?This trial aims to assess the clinical effects and tolerability of Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST) as an alternative to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for Treatment Resistant Schizophrenia (RS).

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for individuals with Treatment Resistant Schizophrenia, meaning their condition hasn't improved after trying other treatments. Participants should be able to undergo procedures like Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST) or Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT).

Inclusion Criteria

I have been diagnosed with Schizophrenia or Schizoaffective Disorder for over 2 years.

My mental health assessment shows moderate to severe symptoms in areas like hallucinations or suspicion.

I am 18 years old or older.

I have tried at least 2 antipsychotics for over 6 weeks without success.

Exclusion Criteria

I do not have any major brain disorders like aneurysms.

I have a serious illness that is not stable.

Participant Groups

The study compares the effectiveness and tolerability of two treatments: Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST) and Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), in patients who have not responded well to standard schizophrenia therapies.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Active Control

Group I: Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST)Experimental Treatment1 Intervention

MST treatments will be administered using the MagPro MST with Cool TwinCoil.

Group II: Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)Active Control1 Intervention

ECT treatments will be administered using the MECTA spECTrum 5000Q or MECTA Sigma.