Brain stimulation combined with pleasant scents for depression

Plain-English translation of NCT05661383 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated July 2025 · Translation generated July 2026 · 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.

What is this trial?

This study is testing whether combining two treatments — a non-invasive brain stimulation called intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS) plus daily exposure to pleasant odors — works better than brain stimulation alone for people with depression that hasn't responded to antidepressant medications. The brain stimulation targets an area involved in mood and reward, while the pleasant scents are meant to activate the same reward system in a complementary way.

Depression that doesn't improve with standard antidepressant medications affects many people and leaves them with limited options. This study explores whether pairing brain stimulation with a simple, enjoyable intervention like scent exposure might enhance the treatment's effectiveness, particularly for the loss of pleasure that is a hallmark of depression.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you have been diagnosed with major depressive disorder that has not improved despite treatment with antidepressant medication
you score 20 or higher on a standard depression severity scale and experience significant loss of pleasure
you have been stable on your current antidepressant medication for at least 4 weeks
you are able to speak and read French
you are willing to provide informed consent to participate

You likely don't qualify if…

you have a condition that affects your sense of smell, including a recent upper respiratory infection, nasal surgery, or congenital anosmia
you have a neurological disease or history of brain injury
you have other psychiatric disorders (besides depression) or substance abuse issues, except tobacco
you have any metallic implants or medical devices in your head that would conflict with brain stimulation
you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or under legal protection or guardianship

What participation looks like

You would receive brain stimulation sessions (iTBS) targeting a specific brain region involved in mood and reward. Half of participants would receive the stimulation alone, while the other half would receive it while simultaneously being exposed to pleasant scents. The study involves multiple visits over several weeks to deliver treatment and track your progress using standard depression rating scales and brain imaging to understand how the treatment affects your brain activity.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Jul 11, 2026 · Not medical advice

Trial locations(1 site)

France

CH Le Vinatier, Bron