Right-sided 1-Hz Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) Versus Left-sided Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS) in Patients With Depression

Launched by REGION ÖREBRO COUNTY · Jun 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying two different brain stimulation treatments to help people with depression, including both major depression and bipolar depression. The goal is to find out if a type of treatment called right-sided 1-Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) works just as well as another treatment called left-sided intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS). Both treatments involve using magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain to improve mood. Researchers will compare how well these treatments reduce symptoms of depression, how patients feel about their overall health, any side effects like pain during treatment, and whether the treatments affect memory or lead to hospital visits or new treatments within six months.

People who may be eligible to join are adults (18 years or older) who have been diagnosed with either unipolar or bipolar depression, live in Sweden, and agree to receive rTMS treatment. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two treatments and will be followed throughout the study to see how their symptoms change. The study plans to include around 350 people and will run between July 2025 and January 2029. It’s important to know that the study team will exclude anyone if one of the treatments is not considered suitable for them. If you or a loved one is looking for new treatment options for depression and meet these criteria, this trial might be something to discuss with your healthcare provider.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • At least 18 years of age at the time of inclusion.
• • A clinical diagnosis of unipolar or bipolar depression according to ICD-10.
• • Acceptance of rTMS.
• • A Swedish personal identity number.
• • Capable of giving informed consent.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • • If the investigator judges one of the two treatment protocols inappropriate for the patient.