Plain-English translation of NCT05915013 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Read our Depressive Disorder, Major research guide →Phase 1 — Testing in a small group (usually 20–80 people) to find a safe dose and watch for side effects.
Researchers at Yale are studying how works to treat depression that hasn't responded to other medications. This trial will test whether a brain receptor called AMPAR is critical to 's antidepressant effects by giving participants combined with either a blocking drug called or a placebo, then measuring brain activity and depression symptoms. The goal is to understand which parts of 's action in the brain are most important for helping depression.
can work quickly for severe depression, but it has drawbacks—it can be abused, causes temporary confusion or unusual perceptions, and researchers don't fully understand how it actually reduces depression. By identifying exactly which brain mechanisms are responsible for its antidepressant benefits, scientists hope to develop safer medications that work similarly but without these side effects.
You likely qualify if…
You likely don't qualify if…
You will attend a screening visit for safety tests (blood work, heart monitoring, physical exam). Then you'll have two main study visits about 3 weeks apart: on each visit, you'll take either a blocking medication or placebo by mouth, receive through an IV, and undergo a 2-hour brain imaging scan (MRI). You'll return the next day for another brief scan and depression symptom check. You'll be asked to avoid caffeine, alcohol, and recreational drugs for a week before each scan. The entire study lasts about 4–5 weeks.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Jun 11, 2026 · Not medical advice
United States