Personalized brain zaps plus therapy shows promise for depression
NCT ID NCT03289923
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether using MRI scans to guide brain stimulation (TMS) and combining it with talk therapy could help people with major depression. Thirty-two adults with current depression received either real or fake TMS along with cognitive therapy over 6 weeks. The goal was to see if this personalized approach improves mood and brain activity.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and cognitive therapy
What this could lead to
If this approach works, it could point toward a more personalized and effective treatment for depression by targeting the right brain area.
What could go wrong
This was a small, early-phase study (32 people) with no clear results yet. The benefits may not be better than standard treatments, and TMS can cause scalp discomfort or headache.
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 MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER 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
-
National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States