rTMS for Apathy Clinical Trial

Summary

Apathy is a common, early, and disabling symptom in dementias and mild behavioural impairment 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 neurocognitive disorders and mild behavioural impairment in individuals receiving methylphenidate and individuals not receiving medication for apathy.

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

* mild or major neurocognitive disorder OR mild behavioural impairment
* Apathy for at least 4 weeks
* Stable dose of medication (\>4 weeks) that may affect cognition or behaviour
* Care partner who spends at least 10 hours a week with the subject

Exclusion Criteria:

* Current major depressive episode
* Agitation, delusions, hallucination
* Medical contraindications to rTMS
* Currently taking an amphetamine product
* Central nervous system abnormalities, Tourette's syndrome, or motor tics
* Current participation in another clinical trial

Conditions7

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