5-Day brain zaps could lift depression fast

NCT ID NCT07487454

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

Summary

This study tests whether 5 days of accelerated transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can quickly reduce depression symptoms. 264 adults with major depressive disorder will receive either real or sham stimulation, along with brain scans and mood tracking. The goal is to see if this rapid treatment works and how it changes 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

intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) via transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a fast, non-invasive treatment option for major depression that reduces symptoms within days.

What could go wrong

This is an early-stage study with no phase designation, so results may not confirm effectiveness. The sham group helps control for placebo effects, but individual responses vary.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • UC Davis Medical Center

    Sacramento, California, 95817, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••