What is TMS? #
TMS stands for Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It is a safe, effective, and non-invasive medical treatment prescribed by a psychiatrist for the treatment of depression. TMS was FDA-approved to treat major depressive disorder in 2008.
Data from clinical studies shows that most people who try TMS (more than 50%) will experience significant improvement.1
TMS can help depressed individuals who have not had an adequate response to medications, or who have been unable to tolerate medications due to side effects. TMS can be utilized in conjunction with medications or as a stand-alone treatment.
How Does TMS Work? #
Science suggests that depression is caused by underactive areas of the brain thought to regulate mood. TMS therapy uses a highly focused and precise, pulsed magnetic field to stimulate these regions of the brain.
One region of the brain that is affected for many people with depression is the pre-frontal cortex. Repeated activation of the left prefrontal cortex with TMS therapy is shown to produce antidepressant effects. Pulsed, magnetic fields induce small electric currents in the prefrontal cortex of the brain. Local neurons (brain cells) depolarize and release neurotransmitters. Blood flow and glucose metabolism rise in the stimulated regions; this is thought to result in improved mood. 2,3
TMS Therapy uses a magnetic field similar to that of an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) machine.
TMS should not be used with patients who have non-removable, conductive metal in or near the head. It should also not be used with patients with seizure disorders. Only a physician can decide if TMS therapy is safe for you.Â
What Does TMS Feel Like? #
The TMS treatment coil delivers a series of rapid pulses which may feel like a tapping on the scalp. Some people describe the sensation as not bothersome, while others may describe it as feeling like a woodpecker might be tapping on their scalp. Most people find the procedure does not cause any notable discomfort. Those who report any pain or irritation usually find that this resolves within the first week of treatment. Your physician may suggest a mild, over-the-counter pain medicine like Motrin or Tylenol to take before each treatment.