What is TMS?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a groundbreaking approach to treating Major Depression. TMS has been used in research for over 30 years. Here at Southeastern Psychiatric Associates, we use a protocol called rTMS or Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation.

TMS is FDA-approved for treating Major Depressive Disorder when medications don’t work. In clinical trials, TMS has been proven to be safe and effective. TMS is well-tolerated, and the effects are usually long lasting.

In the STAR-D trial, the antidepressant remission rate dropped significantly with each failed medication. As shown in chart below, once a patient has failed three medication trials, rTMS is almost three times as likely as a fourth medication to produce remission.

What is TMS treatment like?

Treatments take about 19 minutes and are done in our Randolph offices. You settle into a reclining chair. When the treatment begins, you hear a clicking noise similar to an MRI, and experience a sensation like a finger tap. You remain fully awake and can watch TV or chat with someone in the room.

The treatment does not cause any disorientation or cognitive problems, so you can immediately resume normal activities, like driving home or going to work. There are few to no side effects with TMS.

How does TMS work?

The TMS device creates magnetic pulses that activate the parts of the brain that act to fight depression. As this area becomes more active, depression is reduced.