Brain zaps for depression? tiny study hopes to lift the fog

NCT ID NCT01798407

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

Summary

This small pilot study tests whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) aimed at a specific brain region called the lateral habenula can safely reduce symptoms in 6 adults with severe, treatment-resistant depression. Participants have either major depressive disorder or bipolar I and have not responded to standard treatments. The main goal is to see if depression scores drop by at least half after 6 months of stimulation.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar I disorder Depression Depressive Disorder, Treatment-Resistant major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Baylor College of Medicine

    Houston, Texas, 77030, United States

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