Clinical trials · Massachusetts
Treatment Resistant Depression clinical trials in Massachusetts
We’re tracking 9 recruiting treatment resistant depression studies with a site in Massachusetts — including Phase 2 studies, each written for real people, not researchers.
Recruiting studies in Massachusetts
- NCT03887715RecruitingTeam says not enrolling
VNS device for long-term depression that hasn’t improved
This trial studies whether a vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) device can reduce symptoms of treatment-resistant depression. Participants either receive the VNS treatment or a no-stimulation control, to compare safety and effectiveness.
Boston, MassachusettsAges 18 years+ - NCT07563868Recruiting
Coaching to help ketamine therapy for hard-to-treat depression
This study tests whether adding coaching sessions can help people who are already getting ketamine or esketamine treatment for depression that hasn't responded to other medications. You'd receive weekly coaching calls designed to support your recovery while you continue your regular ketamine clinic visits.
Boston, MassachusettsAges 18 years+ - NCT06423430Recruiting
Deep brain stimulation for treatment-resistant depression (TRANSCEND)
This trial tests a new brain stimulation treatment (deep brain stimulation, or DBS) for people with hard-to-treat depression. It aims to see if targeting a specific brain area can help when other treatments have failed.
Boston, MassachusettsAges 22–70 - NCT06524830RecruitingPhase 2
Testing VLS-01 film for treatment-resistant depression
This trial tests an experimental film placed inside the cheek (VLS-01) against a placebo to see if it helps people whose depression hasn't improved with standard antidepressants. If you have tried at least two antidepressants without success, this study may be an option for you.
Springfield, MassachusettsAges 18–65 - NCT06599099Recruiting
Deep brain stimulation for depression that hasn't responded to other treatments
This trial tests if deep brain stimulation (a surgical implant that sends gentle electrical pulses to a specific area of the brain) can help people with bipolar I disorder who are currently in a severe depressive episode and have not found relief from multiple treatments.
Boston, MassachusettsAges 22–64 - NCT07553637RecruitingPhase 2
ALTO-207 for Adults With Hard-to-Treat Depression
This study tests whether a new medication called ALTO-207 can help people with depression that hasn't improved with standard antidepressants. You may qualify if you've tried multiple antidepressants without enough relief and are willing to add this experimental treatment to your current medication.
Worcester, MassachusettsAges 18–75 - NCT07284667RecruitingPhase 2
A new medicine for depression that hasn't improved with other treatments
This trial tests a new medicine called ACP-211 in adults with major depression who have not gotten enough relief from at least two previous antidepressants. The goal is to see if it can help when other treatments have not worked well.
Watertown, MassachusettsAges 18–65 - NCT05393622Recruiting
Brain stimulation trial for severe, treatment-resistant depression
This study tests an implanted form of brain stimulation for people with severe depression that has not improved with multiple medication trials. If you qualify, you would have brain scans and surgery planning, then follow a treatment-and-safety plan for several months.
Boston, MassachusettsAges 21–80 - NCT06976697Recruiting
Home-based tDCS for major depression
This trial tests a home-use device that sends a small electrical current to the brain to treat major depression. It may be a good option if you are already on antidepressant medication and have a smartphone.
Boston, MassachusettsAges 22–70
Treatment Resistant Depression trials by city in Massachusetts
Where these studies are running in Massachusetts
Institutions with a site for the recruiting treatment resistant depression studies listed above.
- Massachusetts General Hospital · 5 studies
- Adams Clinical · 2 studies
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
- Curavit Clinical Research (virtual study site)
- Elixia Health
- Site 7166
- Vitalix Clinical
What taking part in a treatment resistant depression study involves
A screening visit first
Before anything else, the study team checks whether you fit — usually a visit with some tests. You can stop at any point, and screening is typically free.
Care at a nearby site
Study visits happen at a clinic or hospital taking part. Many studies cover the cost of the study treatment and related visits, and some reimburse travel.
You stay in control
Taking part is voluntary and you can leave a study at any time, for any reason, without affecting your regular care.
The team decides eligibility
Our fit check is a helpful first read, not a decision. The study team makes the final call after reviewing your health history.
Treatment Resistant Depression trials in other states
Common questions
- Are there treatment resistant depression clinical trials in Massachusetts?
- Yes. We're currently tracking 9 recruiting treatment resistant depression studies with a site in Massachusetts, each rewritten in plain language so you can see what it's testing and who it's for.
- How do I find out if I qualify for a treatment resistant depression study in Massachusetts?
- Each study lists its eligibility rules — age, diagnosis, prior treatments. On every trial page we explain these in plain language and offer a short, optional pre-screen for a fit read. The study team makes the final decision.
- Do I have to live in Massachusetts to take part?
- Not necessarily. These studies have a site in Massachusetts, but eligibility is about your health, not your address — some people travel to take part, and a few studies reimburse travel. The study team can tell you what's required.
- Does it cost anything to join a treatment resistant depression trial?
- Using Clin2 is always free. Many trials cover the study treatment and related visits; some reimburse travel. The study team explains exactly what's covered before you decide.
Not the right time?
New treatment resistant depression studies open in Massachusetts regularly. Set up a health profile and we’ll quietly watch for studies that fit you and email you when one opens.
Clin2 helps you find and understand clinical trials and does not provide medical advice. Study data comes from ClinicalTrials.gov. Talk with your doctor about whether a specific trial is right for you.