Can a single IV dose plus brain zaps lift depression faster?

NCT ID NCT04846829

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

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026

Summary

This early-phase study tests whether giving a single intravenous dose of the antidepressant citalopram together with 10 sessions of theta burst stimulation (a form of transcranial magnetic stimulation) can quickly improve depression symptoms. Thirty adults with major depressive disorder who have not responded to at least two prior medications will receive either citalopram or a placebo infusion plus the brain stimulation. Researchers will track changes in depression scores, brain activity, and mood over four weeks.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: citalopram (a common antidepressant) and theta burst stimulation (a type of brain magnetic stimulation)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a faster or more effective way to treat depression by combining medication with brain stimulation.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small study (30 people) testing only a single infusion and 10 stimulation sessions. Results may not apply to everyone, and the combination may not work better than either treatment alone.

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 Depression Research and Clinic Program

Los Angeles, California, 90024, United States

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