Could xenon gas lift depression in hours?

NCT ID NCT03748446

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: Massachusetts General Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-phase trial tests whether inhaling a low dose of xenon gas can quickly improve depressive symptoms in 20 people with treatment-resistant major depression or bipolar depression. Participants receive either xenon or a placebo gas added to their usual treatment, and researchers measure changes in depression scores. The goal is to see if xenon can provide rapid relief, but the study is very small and preliminary.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: xenon gas
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a fast-acting treatment for depression that works within hours instead of weeks.
What could go wrong: This is a very early, small trial with only 20 people. The effect may be small or not work at all, and the safety of repeated use is unknown.

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.

bipolar depression bipolar disorder major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

BIPOLAR DEPRESSION MAJOR DEPRESSIVE DISORDER

Contacts and locations

Locations

Dauten Family Center for Bipolar Treatment Innovation

Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States

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