New electric therapy aims to treat depression without memory loss
NCT ID NCT05172271
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
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.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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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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National Institutes of Health Clinical Center
Bethesda, Maryland, 20892, United States