Accelerated TMS treatment for depression

Vastra Gotaland Region Accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Treatment for Depression

Not applicable Interventional Vastra Gotaland Region · NCT06138678

This study is testing if a faster treatment using brain stimulation can help people with depression feel better compared to the usual slower method.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment146 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorVastra Gotaland Region Government
Locations2 sites (Kungälv and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06138678 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of an accelerated intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) protocol compared to a routine iTBS protocol for treating depression. Participants will receive either 1200 pulses per session twice a day over 15 days or 600 pulses per session once a day over 30 days. A total of 146 patients diagnosed with depression will be recruited and randomized to one of the treatment protocols. Their depressive symptoms will be assessed by psychiatrists at 3 and 6 weeks post-treatment, along with self-rating questionnaires throughout the study.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults diagnosed with depression who meet specific inclusion criteria and have not undergone recent TMS or ECT.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of substance abuse, pregnancy, epilepsy, or certain implanted devices may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a faster and more effective option for patients suffering from depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with iTBS for depression, suggesting that this accelerated approach may also be effective.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of depression verified through a Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I.)
* MADRS-S \>= 20
* unchanged medication last month
* unchanged psychological treatment last month
* admitted to psychiatric ward last month
* no ECT or TMS last six months
* provision of signed informed consent form
* indication for TMS is depression

Exclusion Criteria:

* addiction (illicit drugs or alcohol)
* pregnancy
* epilepsy
* conductive ferromagnetic or other metals implanted in the head or within 30 cm of the treatment coil
* implanted device that is activated or controlled in any way by physiological signals
* implanted mediation pumps
* intracardiac lines, even when removed
* regular use of benzodiazepines
* any condition that seriously increases the risk of non-compliance or loss of follow-up

Where this trial is running

Kungälv and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions DepressioniTBSrTMS
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.