Can magnetic pulses lift depression? new study investigates

NCT ID NCT02506127

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.

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.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • UCLA TMS Clinic and Research Service

    Los Angeles, California, 90025, United States