5-Day brain zapping trial aims to lift severe depression fast

NCT ID NCT04684706

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Pennsylvania Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests an accelerated version of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for people with treatment-resistant depression. Instead of the usual 6-week course, participants receive 10 sessions per day for 5 days. The goal is to see if this intense schedule can quickly reduce depressive symptoms in 40 adults who have not improved with at least two prior treatments.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS) via transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a fast-acting option for people with depression that hasn't responded to other treatments.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 40 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The intensive protocol may cause side effects like headache or discomfort.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

TREATMENT RESISTANT DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Center for Neuromodulation in Depression and Stress

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, 19104, United States
Department of Interventional Psychiatry, University of California San Diego

La Jolla, California, 92093, United States

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