Can a warm bath beat depression? scientists probe immune link

NCT ID NCT03787290

Terminated Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at whether mild whole-body hyperthermia (raising body temperature to about 101.3°F) can help treat major depression by affecting the immune system. Researchers will give some participants a drug that blocks IL-6 (tocilizumab) and others a placebo before the heating session to see if IL-6 is key to the antidepressant effect. The study involves 35 adults with moderate to severe depression and is currently on hold.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Whole-body hyperthermia (device) and tocilizumab (drug)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a new immune-based treatment for major depressive disorder.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase pilot study that is currently suspended. It may not show a clear benefit, and results may not apply to all people with depression.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression Hyperthermia Inflammation 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

Massachusetts General Hospital

Boston, Massachusetts, 02139, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.