Brain scans may predict which antidepressant works best for you

NCT ID NCT05537584

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Mclean Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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

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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.

MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

McLean Hospital

Belmont, Massachusetts, 02478, United States

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