New depression pill zelquistinel passes first safety check in humans

NCT ID NCT04981561

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This early-stage trial tested the safety of a single dose of zelquistinel, an experimental drug for major depressive disorder, in 68 healthy adults. Researchers monitored side effects and how the drug moves through the body. Since it was a Phase 1 study, it focused on safety and dosing, not on treating depression.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

zelquistinel

What this could lead to

If successful, this could lead to a new oral medication for major depressive disorder.

What could go wrong

This is a very early Phase 1 safety study in healthy people, not patients. It does not test if the drug works for depression, and many drugs fail at this stage.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

major depressive disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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