TMS therapy is a well-tolerated treatment for most patients, although it does not work for everyone. Side effects, while infrequent, can include headaches and neck pain.
F.A.Q.
Frequently Ask Questions
Discover the answers to your questions below.
- What are the side effects of TMS?
- How long is an individual sessions and how many are required?At SuccessTMS, a typical TMS session lasts approximately 20 minutes. The sessions continue for five days a week over a duration of four to six weeks. Occasionally, a two-week tapering period may follow consisting of just a few sessions a week.
- Is TMS Safe?Yes. TMS is an FDA-approved treatment, which means it’s completely safe to administer to patients. It’s also non-invasive and virtually pain-free.
- What are some results of TMS?Many TMS patients experience an increase in mood, energy, and appetite, while also experiencing a reduction in anxiety. In clinical practice, nearly 70% of all patients respond to the treatment, and over 45% report remission of their depressive symptoms.
- Is there training necessary to administer TMS?Training is provided by manufacturers of the device, as well as ongoing support. Many medical centers offer advanced courses on the treatment.
- Who are candidates for TMS?Patients who have failed to respond to antidepressants or psychotherapy are the ideal candidates for TMS. People who are not a good fit for TMS are those with metallic implants in ears or eyes, stents in the neck or brain, and other metal devices implanted in or near the head should refrain from undergoing TMS therapy.
- Is TMS the same as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)?No. While TMS is safe, painless, and has little-to-no side effects, electroconvulsive therapy requires general anesthesia which can carry some risk. And unlike TMS, whose patients can immediately resume activities like driving and physical exercise, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) patients require an extended recovery period and heightened risk of seizure and memory loss.
- How does TMS work?TMS has been shown to produce changes in the activity of neurons of the limbic system, which is linked to mood regulation. The procedure consists of magnetic pulses inducing brain activity in the cells of that region. These pulses activate the limbic system cells to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is most often prescribed when other treatments for depression have not been effective.