Magnetic pulses to the brain could help depressed patients think more clearly

NCT ID NCT07161492

Not yet recruiting Symptom relief Sponsor: Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called rTMS can improve cognitive flexibility—the ability to adapt thinking—in people with major depression. 105 participants will receive either active stimulation to two brain areas, active stimulation to one area, or sham (fake) stimulation, over 10 days. Researchers will measure changes in thinking skills, mood, and brain activity using tests and MRI scans.

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)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, non-invasive way to improve thinking and mental flexibility in people with depression, beyond what antidepressants alone can do.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage trial with only 105 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment is short (10 days) and effects may not last long-term.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cognitive Dysfunction major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT DEPRESSIVE DISORDER, MAJOR

Contacts and locations

Locations

Xiangya Second Hospital of Central South University

Changsha, Hunan, 410011, China

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.