Brain scans and a new drug combo aim to break the cycle of depressive rumination

NCT ID NCT06937476

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Central South University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at whether adding aripiprazole to the antidepressant escitalopram can reduce pathological rumination—repetitive, intrusive negative thoughts—in people with major depressive disorder. 108 participants will receive either escitalopram alone or escitalopram plus aripiprazole for 8 weeks. Brain scans before and after treatment will help researchers understand how dopamine activity relates to changes in rumination.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Aripiprazole (added to escitalopram)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a targeted treatment for repetitive negative thinking in depression, and help explain the brain chemistry behind it.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study (108 people) with no blinding for patients. The results may not apply to all populations, and the benefit of aripiprazole for rumination is not yet proven.

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 Neurobehavioral Manifestations rumination disorder Rumination Syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER (MDD) RUMINATION

Contacts and locations

Locations

The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University

Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China

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