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Nicotine's brain impact on depression under the microscope

NCT ID NCT05538910

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 7 times

Summary

This study looks at how nicotine changes brain function in people with and without major depressive disorder (MDD). Researchers will give 620 non-smokers either a nicotine patch or a placebo and then scan their brains using MRI. Participants will also answer questions about their mood and behavior. The goal is to understand why people with MDD are more likely to use nicotine and have a harder time quitting.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
Nicotine patch
What this could lead to
If successful, this could reveal how nicotine influences depression-related brain activity, pointing toward better treatments for nicotine addiction in people with depression.
What could go wrong
This is an early-stage observational study, not a treatment trial. It may not find clear links, and results may not apply to smokers or people with other conditions.

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.

major depressive disorder nicotine dependence substance-related disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER NORMAL PHYSIOLOGY SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • National Institute on Drug Abuse

    RECRUITING

    Baltimore, Maryland, 21224, United States

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