Zapping the back of the brain to lift teen depression?

NCT ID NCT05929183

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a new way to use repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to treat depressive episodes in 40 adolescents with bipolar disorder. Instead of the usual front-brain target, researchers stimulated the visual cortex at the back of the brain, aiming to affect mood-related circuits. The goal was to see if this approach could safely and quickly improve symptoms.

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) device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a faster, safer way to improve mood in teens with bipolar depression.

What could go wrong

This is a small, early-stage study with only 40 participants. The new stimulation target may not work better than existing methods, and results may not apply to everyone.

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.

bipolar depression bipolar disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University

    Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310000, China