Can a warm bath beat depression? scientists probe immune link
NCT ID NCT03787290
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.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, Massachusetts, 02139, United States