Brain test may help match PTSD patients to the right antidepressant

NCT ID NCT04183205

Terminated Knowledge-focused Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study aimed to see if a simple brain-wave test (LDAEP) could predict which veterans with PTSD or depression would improve with the SSRI medication sertraline (Zoloft). Participants took sertraline or a placebo for 14 weeks while researchers measured their brain activity and PTSD symptoms. The study was terminated early and enrolled only 19 people, so it cannot provide clear answers.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: sertraline (Zoloft)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could lead to a simple brain test that helps doctors choose the right antidepressant for each person with PTSD or depression.
What could go wrong: The study was terminated early with only 19 participants, so results are very limited. The brain-wave test may not reliably predict treatment response in real-world settings.

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.

Depression major depressive disorder post-traumatic stress disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER POSTTRAUMATIC STRESS DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC

Charleston, South Carolina, 29401-5703, United States
VA Boston Healthcare System Jamaica Plain Campus, Jamaica Plain, MA

Boston, Massachusetts, 02130-4817, United States

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