Could a Head-Zap device lift depression without drugs?
NCT ID NCT05539131
First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 26, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested whether a device called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) can help people with mild to moderate depression. The device sends a tiny electrical current through the scalp to regulate brain activity. Researchers enrolled 198 adults and measured changes in depression symptoms using standard questionnaires. The goal was to see if tDCS works in real-world clinics and could eventually be used at home.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) device
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a non-drug, at-home option to help ease depression symptoms.
What could go wrong
This is a completed demonstration study, not a large late-phase trial. The results may not apply to everyone, and the device may not work for all types of depression.
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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Catholic Kwandong University International St. Mary'S Hospital
Incheon, Gyeonggi-do, 22711, South Korea
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Hallym Univsity Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital
Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 24253, South Korea
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Myongji Hospital
Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 10475, South Korea
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National Health Insurance Service Ilsanhospital
Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 10444, South Korea
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Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine
Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 16995, South Korea