A simple taste test could revolutionize depression treatment

NCT ID NCT03645447

Terminated Diagnosis Sponsor: Ranvier Health Ltd Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study explores whether a taste test can serve as a diagnostic tool for depression. Participants with untreated major depressive disorder will take a taste test before and after starting an antidepressant prescribed by their doctor, and again six to eight weeks later. The goal is to see if changes in taste sensitivity correlate with improvements in mood, potentially offering a new way to predict which antidepressant will work best for each person.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: taste test device
What this could lead to: If successful, this taste test could become a quick, low-cost tool to help doctors choose the right antidepressant for each patient.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with 240 participants. The taste test may not reliably predict treatment outcomes, and results may not apply to all types of depression.

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.

Depression depressive disorder major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Honiton Surgery

Honiton, Devon, EX14 2LY, United Kingdom
Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust

Hull, Yorkshire, United Kingdom
Jhoots Pharmacy

Bristol, Avon, BS9 3AG, United Kingdom
West Walk Surgery, Yate

Bristol, BS37 4AX, United Kingdom

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