Could an arthritis drug lift the fog of depression?

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).