Using magnetic stimulation to treat depression and pain together

Multi-target repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) treatment for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and comorbid pain

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10817712

This study is looking at a new way to help people with both depression and chronic pain by using a special treatment called rTMS, which targets different parts of the brain to improve mood and reduce pain.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-10817712 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) to treat patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and fibromyalgia (FM), conditions that often occur together. The study aims to test a new rTMS protocol that targets multiple brain areas to improve both mood and pain symptoms. Patients will be randomly assigned to receive either active rTMS or a sham treatment, allowing researchers to assess the effectiveness of this approach. The goal is to provide a more effective treatment option for individuals who struggle with both depression and chronic pain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder who also experience chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have comorbid Major Depressive Disorder and chronic pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for patients suffering from both depression and chronic pain.

How similar studies have performed: Preliminary data suggest that rTMS has shown promise in treating both depression and moderate pain, indicating potential for success with this novel multi-target approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.