New seizure therapy aims to curb suicidal thoughts with fewer side effects
NCT ID NCT06529029
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study compares a new, lower-energy seizure therapy (LAP-ST) to standard electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) for quickly reducing suicidal thoughts in people with depression, bipolar disorder, or schizoaffective disorder. The goal is to see if the gentler approach works just as well but causes less memory loss. About 30 adults aged 18 to 90 will take part.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Low Amplitude Pulse Seizure Therapy (LAP-ST) device
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a safer, more tolerable option for quickly reducing suicidal thoughts in people with severe depression or bipolar disorder.
- What could go wrong
- This is an early-stage trial with only 30 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The therapy is still experimental and may not work as well as standard ECT.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services
RECRUITINGGrand Rapids, Michigan, 49548, United States
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