NCT06775379 · Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc.
A Randomized Study of Azetukalner Versus Placebo in Major Depressive Disorder
(X-NOVA2)
What this study is about
X-NOVA2 is a Phase 3, conducted at multiple hospitals, randomly assigned, where neither patients nor doctors know which treatment is given, compared against an inactive treatment study to evaluate the clinical effectiveness, safety, and tolerability of azetukalner as a treatment given alone in adult participants diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
View original scientific description
X-NOVA2 is a Phase 3, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety, and tolerability of azetukalner as a monotherapy in adult participants diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
Interventions
DRUG
Azetukalner
Azetukalner 20 mg taken orally once a day with food (with the evening meal when possible) for 6 weeks
DRUG
Placebo
Placebo taken orally once a day with food (with the evening meal when possible) for 6 weeks
Primary outcome measures
Change from baseline in the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, 17-item (HAMD-17) score at Week 6
Time frame: Baseline to Week 6
The HAMD-17 consists of 17 items that are used to rate the severity of depression symptoms. Each item is scored in a range of 0 to 2 points or 0 to 4 points, with higher scores indicating a greater degree of depression. The score for each item is summed to compute a total score, which ranges from 0 to 52 points.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Adults ≥18 and ≤74 years of age and experienced their first major depressive episode (MDE) prior to 50 years of age
- Body Mass Index (BMI) ≤40 kg/m2
- Meets the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders Fifth Edition Text Revised (DSM-5-TR) criteria for current major depressive disorder and is currently in an MDE, confirmed using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI)
- Participant's current MDE has a duration of ≥6 weeks and ≤24 months. Key
Exclusion criteria
- Participant has a primary diagnosis of a mood disorder other than MDD.
- Participant has a history of any of the following: MDD with psychotic or catatonic features; MDD with mixed features; Bipolar I or II disorder; Obsessive-compulsive disorder; Schizophrenia, primary thought disorder, or other psychotic disorder.
- Participant has a current diagnosis of any of the following: MDD with seasonal pattern; Depression with peripartum onset; Posttraumatic stress disorder;
Where
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Little Rock, Arkansas
- Rogers, Arkansas
- Glendale, California
- Huntington Beach, California
- Irvine, California
- Los Angeles, California
- Oceanside, California
- Orange, California
- Torrance, California
- Walnut Creek, California
- Cromwell, Connecticut
And 29 more locations — see the full list below.
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Oct 22, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations