Research Center: The University of Melbourne
Location: Parkville
Lead Researcher: Prof. Christopher Davey
IRB: This study has been reviewed and approved by the RMH HREC Institutional Review Board

Could a single dose of a new fast-acting medication reveal new insights into depression? Current treatments for depression don’t always work, and that’s where this MRI study comes in.

Researchers at the University of Melbourne are exploring how a one-time, low dose of a fast-acting depression medication affects the brain in people with depression. Using MRI scans, they’re looking at brain activity before and after an infusion to better understand how this approach works.

Get involved in cutting-edge research—help shape the future of depression treatment.

• Participants will receive a one-off infusion of a new fast-acting medication for depression.
• Participants will receive compensation of $150 as reimbursement for their time and travel. An additional $50 may be awarded for good performance during the MRI tasks.
• Participants will be contributing valuable information that may benefit those with depression in the future.
• Participants will be helping to advance our understanding of how depression affects the brain.

• You will receive all details related to the study, including medication, risks, and procedures, and you will be given the chance to ask study staff questions before you decide whether to participate.
• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you can withdraw at any time
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by the law.

Eligible:

• People aged 18-65 who are diagnosed with major depressive disorder, confirmed by a treating psychiatrist or General Practitioner (GP).
• Must have failed to respond to at least two trials of antidepressant medications in their current episode of depression.
• Must be able and willing to participate and complete the study procedures.

Ineligible:

• Must not have a history of psychotic disorders (e.g., schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, delusional disorder) or bipolar disorder.
• Must not be currently pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Must not have a history of ketamine use disorder.
• Must not have had a substance use disorder in the past 6 months.
• Must not suffer from claustrophobia, have piercings that cannot be removed, or have metallic objects inside their body.

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