Can magnetic pulses lift depression? new study investigates

NCT ID NCT02506127

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

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

Summary

This study tests whether a type of brain stimulation called intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) can help people with major depression who are already on medication but still have symptoms. About 30 adults will receive either real or sham stimulation to see if it improves their depression scores. The goal is to find a safe, non-invasive way to ease depression.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Neuronetics XPLOR transcranial magnetic stimulation system
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, non-drug option to help reduce depression symptoms for people who still struggle despite medication.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 30 participants, and it was suspended, so results may be limited. The treatment may not work better than a sham (fake) procedure.

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 TMS Clinic and Research Service

Los Angeles, California, 90025, United States

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