Transcranial pulse stimulation for treating major depression

A Randomized, Double-blind, Sham-controlled Clinical Trial of Transcranial Pulse Stimulation for the Treatment of Major Depression

NA · The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT05551585

This study is testing a new brain stimulation treatment to see if it can help people with major depression who haven't found relief from regular antidepressants.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment80 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorThe Hong Kong Polytechnic University (other)
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT05551585 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the efficacy of transcranial pulse stimulation (TPS), a novel brain stimulation therapy, in treating major depressive disorder (MDD). The study is designed as a randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled trial to ensure scientific rigor and reliability of results. Participants will be monitored for changes in depressive symptoms, with a focus on those who have not responded adequately to standard antidepressant treatments. The trial aims to provide evidence for TPS as a potential modern antidepressant option.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 to 60 with a clinical diagnosis of major depressive disorder and a HAMD17 score of 14 or higher.

Not a fit: Patients with severe internal diseases, neurological disorders, or current psychiatric comorbidities may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could offer a new, effective option for patients suffering from major depression who do not respond to traditional therapies.

How similar studies have performed: While TPS is a novel approach, preliminary studies have indicated its potential efficacy in treating major depression, suggesting a promising avenue for further investigation.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
MDD group

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18 to 60;
* A clinical diagnosis of a MDD and a HAMD17 score ≥14;
* Treatment naivety or stable (≥4 weeks) psychopharmacological medication.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Severe internal diseases including blood clotting disorders;
* Neurological disorders including bleeding prone micro-pathologies or a history of severe head injuries;
* Current psychiatric comorbidities, including addiction;
* Pregnancy;
* Common NIBS exclusion criteria, such as a history of brain surgery, cardiac pacemaker, deep brain stimulation and intracranial metallic particles.

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

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: Major Depression, Transcranial pulse stimulation, Brain stimulation, Major depression

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.