Symptom reduction
In the completer sample of 17 participants, mean scores on anxiety and depression symptoms fell significantly from baseline to 4 weeks (all P < .01). For example, the GAD-7 mean score fell from 14.3 to 7.1 and the BDI mean score from 30.6 to 14.8.
The study also showed that mindfulness was enhanced. The MAIA total score increased from 83.1 to 93.5 (P = .014).
Device users had increased alpha and theta brainwave activity, findings that “go along with the concept of decreased anxiety,” said Dr. Carpenter. She noted a recent study of the same patient population showed the device enhanced functional brain connectivity.
This current study was too small to pick up signals showing the device was effective in any particular subpopulation, said Dr. Carpenter.
Unlike other stimulation interventions that require clinic visits, patients use the MATT in the comfort of their own home and at their own convenience.
However, there are still questions surrounding the use of the noninvasive device. For example, said Dr. Carpenter, it’s unclear if it would be more effective if combined with psychotherapy or whether patients can use it while sleeping and driving. A next step could be a sham-controlled trial, she said.
The study was supported by Affect Neuro, developer of MATT therapy, and the National Institute of General Medical Sciences. Dr. Carpenter reports receiving a consultancy fee from Affect Neuro.
A version of this article first appeared on Medscape.com.