TMS Therapy - FDA-Approved for Treating

Major depression is a serious mental health condition that has impacted more than 16 million Americans at least once in their lives. For some people, depressive episodes are recurring and cause symptoms, including anxiety, suicidal ideation, and extreme irritability, that can greatly reduce their quality of life. While external factors such as a major life change can trigger depression, physical and emotional symptoms also result from abnormally low levels of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin.

Patients with major depression may be prescribed drugs such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, to readjust their brain chemistry and lessen symptoms. However, some types of depression are treatment-resistant, which means that traditional approaches do not improve or eliminate symptoms. In these serious cases, psychologists may suggest safe, alternative methods to addressing neurochemical imbalances. One such example, NeuroStar transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy, is clinically proven to reduce or eliminate depressive symptoms in non-responsive cases.

First developed in the 1980s, TMS is a noninvasive procedure that uses electromagnetic fields and electrical currents to influence the behavior of the brain cells that regulate neurotransmitter levels. In addition to serving as an alternative for antidepressants, TMS can complement traditional approaches such as medication and counseling. The procedure is only available by prescription.

TMS sessions take place in the physician's office and last between 20 and 45 minutes. On average, patients will complete between 20 and 36 sessions during their first round of treatment. During the procedure, a TMS-trained physician attaches a coil to the patient’s scalp. A device is used to send strong magnetic waves through the coil and into the brain.

This energy activates brain cells directly beneath the coil to release neurotransmitters. As these chemicals flow through the body, the patient may experience a lessening of depressive symptoms. The device emits a loud clicking sound, so patients should wear earplugs.

After six weeks of daily treatment, results may last for months or years between sessions. Approximately two-thirds of patients who have completed the first series of sessions do not need additional TMS treatment during the following 12-month period. According to a study by Harvard Health, the majority of patients with treatment-resistant depression benefit from TMS. A third of these patients experience full remission of depressive symptoms.

TMS does not require the use of anesthesia or sedatives, so the patient is able to perform regular activities after the session. Since patients are not impaired in any way, they are safe to drive themselves home.

The procedure has no long-term side effects, and short-term side effects are rare. A small percentage of patients may experience headaches following a TMS session. This can be treated successfully with over-the-counter pain medication.

Patients who do not respond to antidepressants or find their symptoms worsening despite treatment should consult with their care provider and determine if they are a candidate for TMS. The procedure is painless and requires no recovery time. Additionally, TMS is covered by most health insurance policies.

Due to the use of magnetic fields, TMS is not recommended for everyone. People with metal medical implants or objects located in the head, neck, or chest should not undergo TMS treatment.