Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Phase 4 Interventional Ages 22 to 80

Mobile Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression

Official title: Portable Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in a Van for Treatment-Resistant Depression

Run by Medical University of South Carolina · NCT06748209 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new portable treatment for people with hard-to-treat depression to see if it can help them feel better while making it easier for them to access care.

Quick facts

PhasePhase 4
Study typeInterventional
Ages22 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
Enrollment30 (estimated)
SponsorMedical University of South Carolina
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Charleston, South Carolina)
StatusRecruiting
StartedMay 10, 2025
Main results expectedMarch 1, 2027
Study endsMarch 1, 2028
Registry record updatedMay 6, 2026
Trial IDNCT06748209 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are adults aged 22-80 with treatment-resistant depression who can communicate in English and provide consent.

Probably not a fit

Patients with unstable medical conditions, ferromagnetic metal in the head, or those who are pregnant may not benefit from this study.

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

What this trial studies

This pilot study aims to develop and test a portable Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) unit in a van, delivering treatment to patients with treatment-resistant major depression at three locations in South Carolina. The study will recruit up to 30 eligible patients who will receive accelerated TMS sessions over a two-week period. Investigators will assess the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of this mobile treatment approach, with the goal of improving access to TMS for patients who cannot access traditional treatment facilities. The findings will inform future research and potential widespread adoption of mobile TMS units.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly increase access to effective TMS treatment for patients with treatment-resistant depression.

How similar studies have gone: While mobile TMS is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in improving access to mental health treatments.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Adult (22-80 years old)
* Have treatment-resistant depression as defined by the e-Mini, and the antidepressant treatment history form (ATHF short).
* Be able to read and communicate in English.
* Able to provide their own consent.
* Access to a computer with videoconferencing ability for initial consent and telescreen.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with unstable medical conditions that might make TMS unsafe. This includes current poorly controlled seizures.
* Ferromagnetic metal in the head.
* Pregnant.
* Currently active substance abuse except tobacco.

Where it's running

  • Medical Univerity of South Carolina
    Charleston, South Carolina, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

  • Principal investigator: Mark George, MD — Medical University of South Carolina
  • Study coordinator: Mark S George, MD
  • Email: GEORGEM@MUSC.EDU
  • Phone: 8438765142

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.