Plain-English translation of NCT04080778 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
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.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
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
Sponsor
Joao L. DeQuevedo
Enrollment target
~60 participants
Started
August 2024
Primary completion
December 2027
Age range
22 Years – 85 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in December 2025.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Joao L. De Quevedo, MD, PhD
The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.