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Brain scans may reveal if magnetic therapy hits the right spot for depression

NCT ID NCT04016402

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: VA Office of Research and Development Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Aug 03, 2026 · Last updated Aug 04, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looks at how the brain changes during a depression treatment called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). People receiving rTMS will have MRI brain scans before, during, and after their six-week treatment course. The scans will help researchers see whether the stimulation is reaching the intended brain region and what brain activity changes occur. The goal is to understand how to make rTMS more targeted and effective for people with major depressive disorder.

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), a non-invasive brain stimulation device
What this could lead to
If brain scans can confirm that rTMS is aimed at the right spot, it could help doctors deliver more precise, effective depression treatment.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage imaging study, not a test of whether rTMS works. Results may not change treatment practice, and MRI scans add no direct treatment benefit.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

depressive disorder major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Providence VA Medical Center, Providence, RI

    Providence, Rhode Island, 02908-4734, United States

  • VA Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA

    Palo Alto, California, 94304-1207, United States

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