Plain-English translation of NCT04080778 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Read our Bipolar Disorder research guide →This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.
This study is testing and comparing two types of brain stimulation treatments: magnetic seizure therapy (MST) and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). Both are designed to help people with severe depression, particularly those whose depression hasn't responded to standard antidepressant medications. Researchers want to understand how well these treatments work and what side effects they cause.
Severe depression can be life-threatening and some people don't improve even after trying multiple antidepressant medications. This treatment exists to give patients a faster way to feel better when other options haven't worked, and to help doctors choose the safest and most effective option between the two procedures.
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You will be assigned to receive either magnetic seizure therapy or electroconvulsive therapy — both of which involve guided brain stimulation performed under anesthesia. You'll attend multiple sessions over a period of weeks as an outpatient. The study will measure how much your depression improves and track any side effects you experience. You'll also complete rating scales and questionnaires to help researchers compare the two treatments.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 2, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States