Brain scans vs tape measures: which TMS targeting works best for depression?

NCT ID NCT07043738

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Brigham and Women's Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jul 14, 2026 · Updated 3 times

Summary

This study tests whether using a person's brain scan (MRI) to guide TMS treatment for depression works better than the standard scalp-measurement method. 160 adults with major depression will receive accelerated TMS (10 sessions a day for 5 days) with either MRI or scalp targeting. The goal is to see if the extra cost and complexity of MRI targeting leads to better 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: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
What this could lead to: If MRI-based targeting works better, it could make TMS more effective for depression, though it's more expensive and complex.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage comparison study, not a treatment trial. The added benefit of MRI targeting may be small or not worth the extra cost and effort.

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 (MDD) are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

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.

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER (MDD)

Contacts and locations

Show contact details

Study contacts

Contact

Email: •••••@•••••

More trials for these conditions

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