Can a common ADHD drug boost depression treatment?

NCT ID NCT04509102

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, Los Angeles Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This early study tests whether adding Adderall XR (a stimulant) to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can improve depression symptoms more than rTMS plus a placebo. Thirty adults with treatment-resistant major depressive disorder will take either Adderall or a sugar pill daily for three weeks, starting two weeks before rTMS therapy. The main goal is to see if the combination leads to greater symptom improvement.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Adderall XR (amphetamine)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a way to boost the effectiveness of brain stimulation therapy for depression.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small trial with only 30 people. The results may not apply to everyone, and Adderall can have side effects like insomnia, anxiety, or increased heart rate.

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.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

UCLA Semel

Los Angeles, California, 90025, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.