TMS Therapy FAQs
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a relatively new treatment, and many people have questions regarding how the treatment works, whether treatment is safe, and other key inquiries. Read on for more information.
What is TMS therapy?
TMS is an innovative treatment method used to treat depression by stimulating specific portions of the brain using electromagnetic fields. These fields are similar to that of an MRI machine. During therapy, a magnetic field delivers short pulses to the portion of the brain associated with depression.
Is NeuroStar TMS Therapy covered by my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover TMS Treatment once the client has met specific guidelines set forth by their policy. Our office will determine if these guidelines have been met by the client during your consultation appointment.
Is TMS Therapy effective for patients who cannot tolerate the side effects of medication?
Yes! NeuroStar TMS Therapy is non-systemic, meaning it does not have the typical side effects of antidepressant medications, such as weight gain or sexual dysfunction. The most common side effect reported during trials were a headache and mild-to-moderate scalp discomfort.
What is a typical course of treatment?
The average course of TMS Therapy is once daily, five times per week. Each session is 20-40 minutes in length, depending on your psychiatrist’s recommendation. Overall, the treatment period lasts for 4-6 weeks.
What are the risks of NeuroStar TMS Therapy?
With over 10,000 treatments performed during clinical trials, the most commonly reported side effect of TMS Therapy was a headache and scalp discomfort, which occurred less frequently after the first week. Furthermore, there is a slight risk of stop-seizures-meds during treatment. This risk is no greater than with antidepressant medications, however.
Does TMS Therapy cause memory loss?
No, NeuroStar TMS Therapy has been evaluated for memory loss and has been deemed completely safe by the FDA. Clinical trials showed zero negative effects on memory or concentration.
Is TMS Therapy uncomfortable?
No. However, the most common side effect, mild scalp discomfort, was experienced during trial periods for the first week. This effect became less frequent after week one.
How long does TMS Therapy last?
On average, NeuroStar TMS Therapy patients experienced durability over 12 months. 1 of 3 patients required a follow-up appointment or ‘reintroduction’.
Can I continue taking antidepressants?
Yes. During clinical trials, NeuroStar TMS Therapy was administered to two groups, one taking antidepressants and one without. Both were safe.