Study Comparing Two Types of Electroconvulsive Therapy for Suicidal Thoughts

This study is looking at two different ways to deliver Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) for people experiencing suicidal thoughts, especially those with Major Depressive Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, or Bipolar Disorder. We are comparing a new approach called Sigma-Stim, which uses a lower electrical current (600mA or 700mA), to the standard Ultra-Brief Right Unilateral ECT (800mA). The main goal is to see if Sigma-Stim can reduce suicidal thoughts more effectively and with fewer memory side effects than the standard treatment. We expect to enroll about 30 participants who are already considered candidates for ECT by their doctors. The study will measure changes in suicidal thoughts through self-reports and clinician ratings over about four weeks.

Study design
This is a randomized clinical trial comparing two types of ECT in about 30 participants. Participants will be assigned to receive either Sigma-Stim or standard Ultra-Brief Right Unilateral ECT.
What's involved
Not specified in the trial record.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Suicidal thoughts will be measured through study completion, which is an average of four weeks.

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NCT06529029

Low Amplitude Pulse Seizure Therapy Versus Standard Ultra-Brief Right Unilateral Electroconvulsive Therapy

Recruiting
PHASE2Ages 18–90InterventionalTreatment
Michigan State University
~30 participants
Updated 2026-08-12 on ClinicalTrials.gov
What's tested:Sigma-StimRUL LAP-ST (Low-Amplitude Pulse Seizure Therapy - Right Unilateral)

At a glance

Recruiting sites
1 of 1 listed site is recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
Suicide Ideation - Self Report
Measured over Through study completion, an average of four weeks
+1 more outcome measured
Suicidal Ideation
Major Depressive Disorder
Schizo Affective Disorder
Bipolar Disorder
1 sites across 1 states
Michigan1
  • Nagy A Youssef, MD, PhD · PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR · Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services & Michigan State University

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  • Suicide Ideation - Self ReportThrough study completion, an average of four weeks

    Beck Scale for Suicide Ideation (SSI-Worst and SSI-Current) - self reported. Minimum score of 0, maximum score of 42. Lower score indicates a better outcome.

  • Suicide Ideation - Clinician RatedThrough study completion, an average of four weeks

    Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS) - clinician administered. Intensity of suicidal ideation: minimum score of 0, maximum score of 5. Lower score indicates a better outcome. Suicidal behavior not rated on a scale.