Brain scans may predict which antidepressant works best for you
NCT ID NCT05537584
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026
Summary
This completed Phase 4 trial tested whether brain scans and behavioral tasks can predict which antidepressant—sertraline or bupropion—works better for people with major depression and anhedonia (loss of pleasure). 133 participants took one of the two drugs for 8 weeks while researchers measured brain activity and effort-based decision-making. The goal is to personalize depression treatment and avoid guesswork.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
Sertraline (Zoloft) and Bupropion (Wellbutrin)
What this could lead to
If successful, this could help doctors choose the right antidepressant for each person with depression, reducing trial-and-error.
What could go wrong
This is a small, completed study focused on prediction, not a new treatment. Results may not apply to all depression types or lead to immediate changes in care.
Disclaimer
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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.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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McLean Hospital
Belmont, Massachusetts, 02478, United States