Optimizing brain stimulation techniques for treating depression

Defining Parameters to Optimize Neurostimulation for the Treatment of Pediatric Depression

NA · Université de Sherbrooke · NCT06464445

This study tests different ways of using brain stimulation to see if it can help young adults with treatment-resistant depression feel better.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 35 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversité de Sherbrooke (other)
Locations1 site (Sherbrooke, Quebec)
Trial IDNCT06464445 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of different parameters of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), a form of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), on brain plasticity and cortical excitability in individuals with treatment-resistant depression. By varying the shape and duration of the electromagnetic pulses used in iTBS, researchers aim to determine the most effective approach for enhancing therapeutic outcomes. Participants will be closely monitored to assess changes in brain activity and mood as a result of the stimulation. The study focuses on young adults aged 18 to 35 who meet specific health criteria.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy young adults aged 18 to 35 who are right-handed and do not have any contraindications for brain stimulation.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological disorders, those on psychotropic medications, or individuals with certain medical implants will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment options for individuals suffering from treatment-resistant depression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with various forms of rTMS, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Be between 18 and 35 years old
* Be of right manual dominance
* In good health

Exclusion Criteria:

* Have an implant or pacemaker,
* Having tinnitus,
* Have a history of fainting,
* Have already had an epileptic seizure or have a family history of epilepsy,
* Have a known neurological disease,
* Be under psychotropic medication,
* Have suffered from substance abuse or dependence in the last 6 months,
* Have a neurostimulator,
* Have a splinter or metallic implant in the head or the rest of the body,
* Have a cochlear implant,
* Have an automated injection system implanted (insulin pump),
* Have a transdermal patch,
* Have tattoos in the area to be studied,
* Be pregnant or breastfeeding,

Where this trial is running

Sherbrooke, Quebec

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Neuromodulation, TMS, repetitive TMS, intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation, Plasticity

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.