Could a Head-Zap device lift depression without drugs?

NCT ID NCT05539131

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Yonsei University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

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

Catholic Kwandong University International St. Mary'S Hospital

Incheon, Gyeonggi-do, 22711, South Korea
Hallym Univsity Chuncheon Sacred Heart Hospital

Chuncheon, Gangwon-do, 24253, South Korea
Myongji Hospital

Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 10475, South Korea
National Health Insurance Service Ilsanhospital

Goyang-si, Gyeonggi-do, 10444, South Korea
Yongin Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine

Yongin, Gyeonggi-do, 16995, South Korea

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