Could xenon gas lift depression in hours?
NCT ID NCT03748446
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.
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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Dauten Family Center for Bipolar Treatment Innovation
Boston, Massachusetts, 02114, United States