Why do some women get depressed during perimenopause? scientists investigate a key brain chemical
NCT ID NCT05329779
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 2 times
Summary
This study looked at how allopregnanolone, a natural brain chemical, affects mood and thinking in perimenopausal women with depression. Researchers gave participants either the drug brexanolone (a form of allopregnanolone) or a placebo to see how it changed their tendency to ruminate. The study was terminated early and only enrolled 2 women, so the findings are very limited.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
brexanolone (allopregnanolone)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could help explain why some women get depressed during perimenopause and point toward targeted treatments.
What could go wrong
The study was terminated early with only 2 participants, so results are very limited. It was a small, early-stage investigation, not a treatment trial.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States