This study is being done to learn more about how the brain and body function in midlife women experiencing depressive symptoms during perimenopause or early postmenopause. Researchers are studying whether pregnenolone may have a potential therapeutic benefit for depression.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Women aged 40–60 years old
• Currently experiencing depressive symptoms
• Going through, or have recently gone through, menopause
• Able to attend study visits in Boston, MA

If you are interested in participating, you will:

1. Complete a remote screening visit to see if you may be eligible for the study.
2. Attend an in-person visit at BIDMC in Boston lasting about 1–2 hours. A study physician will determine whether you are eligible to continue.
3. Attend a second in-person visit lasting about 2–3 hours. If eligible, you will receive study medication and begin taking one pill each day for 4 weeks. The pill will contain either pregnenolone or a placebo, and neither you nor the study team will know which one you receive.
4. Complete a follow-up visit about 2 weeks later, lasting about 2–3 hours. If eligible, you will also complete an MRI brain scan, which takes about 1.5 hours.
5. Complete a final follow-up visit about 4 weeks after starting the study medication, lasting about 2–3 hours.

The study takes approximately 5 weeks from start to finish.

Participants may receive up to $1,600 for completing study activities. Parking vouchers or reimbursement of up to $50 will be provided for in-person visits. The study team may also arrange Lyft rides to and from study visits.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.