Magnetic pulses aim to lift depression in bipolar II

NCT ID NCT05849402

First seen Jul 01, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a rapid form of brain stimulation, called accelerated intermittent theta-burst stimulation (aiTBS), can relieve depression in people with bipolar II disorder whose depression has not responded to other treatments. Participants receive either real or sham (inactive) stimulation to the left prefrontal cortex over five days. The goal is to see if aiTBS can safely reduce depressive symptoms without the need for medication.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

accelerated intermittent theta-burst transcranial magnetic stimulation (aiTBS)

What this could lead to

If effective, aiTBS could offer a non-drug option for people with bipolar II depression who haven't responded to standard treatments.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage trial with 60 participants, and the sham comparison means some may not benefit. Brain stimulation can cause discomfort or rare side effects like seizure.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar disorder bipolar II disorder Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Stanford University

    Palo Alto, California, 94305, United States