Study on HALF-MIS Treatment for Depression

Depression is a common mental illness worldwide, affecting an estimated 3.8% of the population, including 5.0% of adults and 5.7% of adults older than 60 years.

A new study by Dr. Gudrun Agusta Sigurdardottir and her team from Psychiatric Centre Amager, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen S, Denmark, reported that High Amplitude Low Frequency–Music Impulse Stimulation (HALF-MIS) treatment might have a beneficial effect as an add-on treatment for depression by Vagal Nerve Stimulation (VNS).

The study is published in the Brain and Behaviour journal.

Objective

The objective of the study was to determine the feasibility, efficacy, and potential side effects of HALF-MIS, used as an add-on treatment for depression.

Methodology

The study was an open randomized controlled pilot study. Patients with depressive disorder were randomly allocated to either a HALF-MIS group with eight add-on HALF-MIS sessions (over a period of 3–4 weeks) or a control group which received treatment as usual. Seated in a specially designed chair embedded with a transducer, their central nervous system was stimulated through the abdomen, using music and vibration. Hamilton rating was performed. Side effects were registered.

Results

• A total of 38 participants were involved, with 18 patients randomized to the add-on treatment and 20 patients to the control group.
• Both groups were assessed using the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS)-17 and HDRS-6, although the HALF-MIS group had a greater decline in symptoms.
• A significant difference in intergroup analysis (p = .011, CI 95% for the HALF-MIS group 3.0588–8.5327 and CI 95% for the control group 0.2384–3.0) was found.
• The HDRS-6 difference was also significant (p = .020, CI 95% for the HALF-MIS group 1.5911–5.0487 and for the control group −0.297 to 1.7058). No side effects were observed.

Conclusion

Dr. Sigurdardottir and her team concluded that "High Amplitude Low Frequency–Music Impulse Stimulation treatment seems to give a beneficial effect as an add-on treatment for depression. HALF-MIS appears to be a safe and effective add-on treatment for depression." However, this study was limited by a small sample size and heterogeneity in the antidepressants used between participants. Nonetheless, HALF-MIS represents a non-invasive adjunct to traditional depression interventions which may decrease symptoms and improve quality of life.

For further information: https://doi.org/10.1002/brb3.1399