Could an arthritis drug lift the fog of depression?
NCT ID NCT07003997
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether baricitinib, an anti-inflammatory drug used for arthritis, can improve motivation and brain function in people with major depression who have high inflammation. One hundred adults aged 25-55 with depression and elevated C-reactive protein will receive either baricitinib or a placebo for 8 weeks. The goal is to see if the drug boosts connectivity in brain reward circuits and reduces symptoms like anhedonia (loss of interest).
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Baricitinib (Olumiant), an immunosuppressant drug that reduces inflammation by blocking Janus kinase enzymes.
What this could lead to
If successful, this could point toward a new treatment option for people with depression who have high inflammation and lack motivation.
What could go wrong
This is an early Phase 2 trial with only 100 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. Baricitinib is an immunosuppressant and can have side effects like increased infection risk.
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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Study contacts
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Contact
Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Locations
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Emory University
RECRUITINGAtlanta, Georgia, 30322, United States
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