TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
TMS therapy is FDA-cleared to treat patients with Major Depressive Disorder (depression). It is frequently used for those who have not responded well to medications.
TMS treatment usually spans 2 months, with sessions 5 days a week. Each session lasts about 3 to 20 minutes. During each session, the patient sits in a chair while the device is positioned in the designated treatment area. TMS does not involve anesthetics, meaning patients may resume their days right after the session.
If medications have not been effective or if side effects have been unbearable, TMS treatment may be a good option to consider.
2 out 3 patients have a great response to TMS therapy and, after a year of completing treatment, will continue to see compelling results. 1 out of 3 patients is able to attain a symptom-free outcome.
Headache and discomfort in the scalp area are not uncommon with TMS therapy. As the weeks go on, the side effects start to diminish. If you experience these side effects, you can use over-the-counter pain medication.
Clinical studies have shown TMS to be safe and effective. As in the case of antidepressants, there is a minimal risk of patients experiencing seizures.
TMS treatment is safe and does not cause brain cancer. Similar to having an MRI, TMS uses magnetic fields to treat patients effectively.
There are many differences between TMS and shock therapy. Unlike ECT, TMS does not cause a seizure, memory loss, or mental confusion. TMS also does not require the use of anesthetics or necessitate a recovery period after sessions.