NCT07060066 · The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
Bilateral Prefrontal and Insular TMS for Depression in Schizophrenia
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to provide an effective repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) treatment for depressive symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Schizophrenia patients with depressive symptoms will be exposed to rTMS to improve their symptoms.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to provide an effective repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) treatment for depressive symptoms in patients with schizophrenia. Schizophrenia patients with depressive symptoms will be exposed to rTMS to improve their symptoms.
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
- Male and female ages between ages 18-60 years.
- Ability to give written informed consent (age 18 or above).
- Diagnosed with schizophrenia-spectrum disorder and Evaluation to Sign Consent (ESC) above 10.
- Score of Calgary depression scale for schizophrenia (CDSS) ≥ 3.
Exclusion criteria
- Inability to sign informed consent.
- Any major medical illnesses that may affect normal brain functioning. Examples of these conditions include, but are not limited to: stroke, repeated seizure, history of significant head trauma with cognitive sequela, CNS infection or tumor, other significant brain neurological conditions.
- Significant alcohol or other drug use other than nicotine or marijuana dependence.
- Inability to refrain from using alcohol and/or marijuana 24 hours or more prior to experiments.
- Pregnancy, as classified by a woman of child-bearing potential who is not using a contraceptive and has missed a menstrual period; or by self-report; or by positive urine pregnancy test.
- For MRI, inability to participate in the MRI scanning due to metallic devices or objects (cardiac pacemaker or neurostimulator, some artificial joints, metal pins, surgical clips or other implanted metal parts) or declining to get in the scanner.
- Failed TMS safety questionnaire.
Where
- Houston, Texas
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 Dec 17, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations