Oxford tests Parkinson's drug to unlock secrets of depression

NCT ID NCT07022366

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Oxford Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

Researchers at the University of Oxford are studying how pimavanserin, a drug used for Parkinson's disease, affects memory, emotional processing, and decision-making in 80 healthy adults aged 18-45. By blocking a specific serotonin receptor, the study aims to better understand brain chemistry that could lead to new depression treatments. Participants receive either a single dose of pimavanserin or a placebo and complete cognitive tasks.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Pimavanserin (10 mg single dose)
What this could lead to: If successful, this study could reveal how a specific serotonin receptor influences mood and thinking, pointing toward new depression treatments.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage, small study in healthy volunteers, not patients. Results may not translate to real-world depression treatments.

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

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

HEALTHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford
RECRUITING

Oxford, United Kingdom

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