Mild-Intensity Whole Body Hyperthermia (WBH) for Major Depressive Disorder

Overall, the objective of this pilot study is to utilize the IL-6 receptor antagonist tocilizumab to prospectively evaluate the role of IL-6 in the antidepressant and immunological effects of whole body hyperthermia (WBH). The study seeks to replicate findings thus far that WBH has an antidepressant effect by administering the intervention at a site not involved in studies to date. Moreover, the current proposal may help the investigators better understand the role of IL-6 in the pathogenesis and treatment of depression which might point to novel immune-based interventions for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Finally, the current proposal holds promise for better understanding of a novel treatment for MDD, which is among the leading causes of health-related disability in the world.