Mindfulness meets brain zaps: new hope for depression?

NCT ID NCT04586699

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: University of California, San Diego Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether pairing meditation with a brain stimulation technique called rTMS can better treat depression. rTMS is already FDA-approved but only works for about 15-30% of patients. The researchers hope that adding a focus on internal attention (like breathing) during stimulation will boost its effects. Fifty adults with moderate to severe depression who haven't responded to antidepressants are taking part.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) paired with meditation tasks
What this could lead to: If it works, this could lead to a more effective, faster-acting treatment for depression that combines brain stimulation with mindfulness.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study with only 50 participants. The approach may not prove more effective than standard rTMS, and results may not apply to all depression patients.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Depression depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Neuromodulation Clinic Veterans Affairs San Diego

San Diego, California, 92037, United States
UC San Diego Health Psychiatry

San Diego, California, 92127, United States

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