TMS FAQ

TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses electromagnetic fields to stimulate specific regions of the brain. It involves the use of a magnetic coil placed near the scalp to induce electrical currents in the brain.

TMS is FDA approved for the treatment of depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). There are many evidence-based off-label uses for TMS as well, including anxiety, auditory hallucinations, PTSD, with the research continually expanding.

TMS works by generating a magnetic field that passes through the skull and stimulates neurons in the brain. The stimulation can either excite or inhibit neuron activity, depending on the parameters used.

No, while there may be some similarities between the treatments, there are more differences. ECT, uses electric currents to induce a seizure. TMS utilizes magnetic pulses to stimulate the brain in a non-invasive way. TMS is an outpatient procedure and you are awake the entire time. ECT is typically administered in a hospital, under sedation. TMS has fewer side effects that ECT and does not have the associated memory loss. TMS does not require sedation, which reduces the added risk and complications associated with general anesthesia.

Most major insurance companies cover TMS, though each company has their own criteria. Our staff will work with you and your insurance company regarding coverage and give you an estimate of potential out-of-pocket expenses.

Side effects of TMS are generally mild to moderate and improve shortly after a session is complete. Side effects typically improve over time and with more sessions. Side effects may include: Scalp discomfort and paint Mild Headache Tingling, spasms, or twitching of facial muscles Light headedness The most serious and rare side effect of TMS is a seizure. There were no seizures in the clinical trials, which involved over 10,000 patient treatment sessions. In a 300 patient clinical trial, no seizures were observed. However, seizures have occurred during other research and in the clinical use of TMS. The risk of having a seizure is very low, and is estimated to be about 1 in 30,000 (0.003%) or 1 in 1,000 patients (0.1%).

TMS can be used in combination with other treatments like medication and psychotherapy, depending on the individual's needs and the provider's recommendations. It is important to discuss all treatments with your provider.

TMS feels like a tapping sensation on the scalp and a "clicking" noise can be heard. The pulses take a little bit to get used to and can be uncomfortable, but not painful. The more treatments you do, the more used to the sensation you become. We supply earplugs to prevent discomfort from the noise. There can be mild facial twitching when the pulses are delivered. This is normal and should not cause pain.

Depending on the specific treatment, a treatment can take anywhere from 3 - 40 minutes.

A typical course of TMS for the treatment of depression is 36 sessions, however, that may not be the right number for you. Depending on your response, we may pursue a treatment extension. Each person is different and we are committed to delivering the best treatment for the individual, not a cookie cutter program.

Assuming you have a valid driver's license, yes! There is no sedation and you can leave immediately after your treatment and resume your normal daily activities.

Most clinical trials indicate that patients experience improvement by the 4th week of treatment. However, some may experience improvements earlier or later. Some continue to experience improvements a few weeks after treatment has concluded. It is important to be patient when looking for results. Like weight loss or your child growing, you might not be the first to notice the changes. Often time, other's may notice a difference before you.

It is important to consult with your provider regarding all medications. Some people are able to discontinue antidepressants with TMS, some people are able to transition from a polypharmaceutical approach to a monopharmaceutical approach, it all depends on the individual and their individual care plan.

It is not recommended to stop treatment early. Concluding treatment early may have an impact on the durability of the results.

Sometimes, patients will complete multiple full courses of TMS. The response varies by individual and some people may require re-treatment semi-annually, annually, bi-annually, etc.

At NeuStart Psychiatry & TMS, we utilize Magventure Stimulators and Coils. For more informaton, click here: https://magventure.com/depression-treatment/

No, TMS is a medical procedure and we treat it as such.