Compare 10 Hz rTMS vs. iTBS for teens with major depressive disorder

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

In this interventional trial, adolescents with DSM-5 diagnosed major depressive disorder are randomized to receive either 10 Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation or intermittent theta burst stimulation over a two-week course. Participants will undergo assessments of depressive symptoms, cognitive function, and brain physiology using imaging and neurophysiological measures at baseline, immediately after treatment, and at a one-month follow-up to explore immediate and lasting effects and potential mechanisms. The study will be conducted at the Shandong Mental Health Center with collaboration from regional universities, enrolling up to 80 participants aged 11–19 who meet specified inclusion criteria and have no major comorbid psychiatric or neurological conditions. Safety monitoring and MRI/TMS suitability screening are part of the protocol to ensure appropriate participation. Findings could help clarify which stimulation protocol is more effective and for whom among adolescence with depression.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

\*\*Inclusion Criteria:\*\*

* Aged 11 to 19 years
* Meeting the DSM-5 criteria for MDD
* Absence of current or past psychotic symptoms (e.g., auditory or visual hallucinations)
* No comorbid schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, or other severe psychiatric conditions
* No contraindications to MRI or TMS, including implanted cardiac pacemakers, neurostimulators, artificial metal heart valves, intracranial aneurysm clips, cochlear implants, or other metallic implants

\*\*Exclusion Criteria:\*\*

* Alcohol or substance dependence
* Severe or unstable medical conditions, including neurological, endocrine, and rheumatic diseases, brain disorders, traumatic brain injury or surgery, and infectious diseases
* Recent receipt of rTMS or electroconvulsive therapy
* High suicide risk
* A history of epilepsy or unprovoked seizures
* Pregnancy

Where it's running

• Shandong Mental Health Center
  Jinan, Shandong, China Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Kangcheng Wang, PhD
• Email: wangkangcheng@sdnu.edu.cn
• Phone: +86 136 0640 0147

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.