Could a Parkinson's drug help restore pleasure in depression?

NCT ID NCT05825235

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Region Skane Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at whether adding pramipexole (a drug used for Parkinson's) for 6 months can safely reduce anhedonia — the loss of pleasure or interest — in people with depression. 55 adults who had already been in a shorter trial took pramipexole alongside their usual treatment. Researchers measured changes in anhedonia and depression symptoms over time.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Pramipexole (a dopamine agonist, typically used for Parkinson's disease, repurposed here for depression)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, longer-term option for people with depression who struggle with loss of pleasure (anhedonia).
What could go wrong: This is a small, open-label follow-up study (no placebo control), so results are less reliable. Side effects of pramipexole include nausea, dizziness, and impulse control issues.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Anhedonia bipolar depression Depression depressive disorder dysthymic disorder endogenous depression

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ANHEDONIA DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Region Skåne

Lund, Skåne County, 221 85, Sweden

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