iTBS to relieve depression and executive dysfunction in older adults: An open label study.

Abstract Background Executive Function Deficits (EFD) accompany depression and are associated with poor outcomes in older adults. We examined whether Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS) could improve depression with EFD. Methods Thirteen geriatric patients with depression and EFD were enrolled. Open, label iTBS was delivered bilaterally over the dorso-lateral-prefrontal-cortex for four weeks. Results Montgomery Asberg Depression Scale scores improved significantly from baseline to treatment-end, mean change in score = 11.82 points, 95% CI = 8.3, 15.4. The Flanker Inhibitory control and attention test showed significant improvement in executive function from baseline to treatment-end, mean change in score = -7.73, 95% CI (-13.54, -1.92). Side effects included twitching in facial muscles (n= 11), headaches (n =10) and stimulation discomfort (n= 4). Limitations Small sample size and lack of a sham comparator. Conclusions We showed feasibility and tolerability of iTBS, and its potential benefit to alleviate depression and EFD in older adults.