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New electric therapy aims to treat depression without memory loss

NCT ID NCT05172271

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 13, 2026 · Updated 4 times

Summary

This small study tests a new treatment called TEST for people with depression that hasn't improved with standard treatments. TEST uses a lower electric current than standard electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), aiming to avoid memory and thinking problems. Eight adults aged 25-64 will receive TEST or sham treatments, along with optional ECT, and be followed for up to 42 weeks to check safety and any mood benefits.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
transcranial electric stimulation (TEST) using an ECT device at non-seizure levels
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a gentler alternative to electroconvulsive therapy for people with hard-to-treat depression, with fewer memory and thinking side effects.
What could go wrong
This is a very early feasibility study with only 8 participants, so results may not apply widely. The treatment is experimental and may not improve depression.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

bipolar disorder bipolar I disorder bipolar II disorder major depressive disorder visual epilepsy

As listed by the trial registrant

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

BIPOLAR DISORDER MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER UNIPOLAR MAJOR DEPRESSION

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Institutes of Health Clinical Center

    Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States

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