Compares two magnetic brain stimulation methods in adults with depression
Tests two magnetic brain stimulation treatments in adults with depression or bipolar depression.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Right-sided 1-Hz Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) Versus Left-sided Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS) in Patients With Depression
Key facts
- Where
- Örebro and Uppsala, SwedenSee the 2 sites
- Phase
- Phase 4
Where in Sweden
- Unit for BrainstimulationÖrebro, SwedenTaking people
- Unit for BrainstimulationUppsala, SwedenTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- Region Örebro County
- Trial code
- NCT07026461
- Record updated
- 16 December 2025
- Original description
Aim: The purpose of the study is to establish the non-inferiority of right-sided inhibitory 1 Hz stimulation compared to left-sided intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) in unipolar and bipolar depression.Read full original descriptionShow less
Right-sided 1-Hz Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) Versus Left-sided Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation (iTBS) in Patients With Depression. -a Randomized Non-inferiority Trial
Aim: The purpose of the study is to establish the non-inferiority of right-sided inhibitory 1 Hz stimulation compared to left-sided intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) in unipolar and bipolar depression.
Design: A national, non-inferiority, register-based, randomized trial, unmasked, with two treatment arms.
Primary objective: The primary objective is to determine if right-sided inhibitory 1-Hz stimulation to dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) is non inferior to iTBS in treating unipolar and bipolar depression by measuring reduction in Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale, self-assessed version (MADRS-S) from baseline to end of treatment.
Secondary objectives: Include testing for differences in:
* Observer rated response according to Clinical Global Impression Scale-Improvement (≥2 point reduction CGI). * Response to treatment (a decrease of 50% on MADRS-S) * Self-rated global health measured with the EuroQual-group 5 Dimensions Scale Visual Analogue Scale (EQ-5D-VAS). * Drop-out from treatment. * Stimulation site pain measured with the Numerical Rating Scales (NRS). * Adverse events. * Admission and suicides within 6 months. * New treatment course of rTMS or ECT within 6 months * Remission (score < 11 on the MADRS-S) * Memory impairment measured with the Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS).
Study population: Patients with unipolar or bipolar depression. Sample size: 350 patients.
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.
Inclusion time: 2025-07-01 to 2029-01-01
Inclusion: 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: If the investigator judges one of the two treatment protocols inappropriate for the patient.