Can TMS replace antidepressants?

Can TMS replace antidepressants?

TMS therapy is considered to be a safe and effective alternative to antidepressants, however, it still may come with some side effects. Mild to moderate side effects may include headache, lightheadedness, scalp discomfort, and tingling, spasms, or twitching of facial muscles.

Does TMS get rid of depression?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain to improve symptoms of depression. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments haven’t been effective.

Can TMS therapy make you worse?

While TMS does not worsen symptoms for patients who are correctly diagnosed with a condition that TMS is known to treat (such as depression, anxiety, OCD, and PTSD), TMS may possibly worsen symptoms for patients with conditions that TMS are not know to treat, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.

Does TMS work for depression and anxiety?

Though research is limited, doctors have seen success using TMS to treat anxiety. Studies have shown significant benefit for individuals who have been diagnosed with “anxious depression” or depression and comorbid anxiety. In these types of cases, both depression and anxiety have been reduced through TMS.

Who should not do TMS?

Patients less than 18 years of age or older than 68 years of age. Patients with a history of substance abuse. Patients with a psychotic disorder, such as schizophrenic disorder, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disease, or major depression with psychotic features.

How much does a TMS machine cost?

That’s 3,000-5,000 magnetic pulses over a period of about 20 minutes. Multiply the cost by five sessions a week (with weekends off) for 4 to 6 weeks, and the price tag ranges from about $5,000-$10,000.

How long do the results of TMS last?

Because of the various factors that influence each person’s depression, there’s no definitive answer to how long the TMS results will last. Most patients who complete the full course of treatment experience improvement in their symptoms for six months to a year or more.