Mindfulness meets brain zaps: new hope for depression?
NCT ID NCT04586699
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.
Disclaimer
Read more
Show less
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.
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.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for DEPRESSION are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
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
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Neuromodulation Clinic Veterans Affairs San Diego
San Diego, California, 92037, United States
-
UC San Diego Health Psychiatry
San Diego, California, 92127, United States