Can a common amino acid make TMS work better for depression?

NCT ID NCT06876129

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

Summary

This study tests whether taking D-serine (an amino acid) before transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can improve depression symptoms more than TMS alone. Sixty adults with major depressive disorder will receive either D-serine or a placebo before TMS sessions for six weeks. The goal is to see if the combination leads to greater mood improvement.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

D-serine

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a more effective way to treat depression by combining a brain-stimulation therapy with a drug that boosts brain plasticity.

What could go wrong

This is a very early Phase 1 trial with only 60 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The drug may cause side effects or not improve depression beyond standard TMS.

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.

Depression depressive disorder major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • McLean Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Belmont, Massachusetts, 02478, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••