Depression addressed with brain stimulation

Q: What is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation? What patients are the best candidates for the therapy?

A: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive, brain-stimulation technique that uses a magnetic field to influence brain activity.

In 2008, NeuroStar Advanced Therapy became the first TMS treatment to be cleared by the FDA to treat Major Depressive Disorder in adult patients. TMS therapy stimulates activity in areas of the brain involving emotion, motivation and memory, which can be underactive. It changes brain activity through multiple sessions of treatment, and has ongoing benefits after the period of stimulation.

TMS is indicated for people who have depression that is more than mild and has not improved after a trial of an antidepressant medication for an appropriate time and at a reasonable dose. Most national insurance companies cover the treatment. TMS therapy should not be used for people with metal implants or deposits in the face, head or neck, or for those who have medical devices such as deep-brain stimulators that could be affected by the magnetic pulses. People who are experiencing suicidal thoughts or who cannot stay safe at home should always go to an emergency department for evaluation, rather than waiting for an appointment to discuss TMS therapy.