TMS Therapy
About Neurostar TMS Therapy
Depression is a treatable condition. Medications and psychotherapy are commonly prescribed to help patients battle depression, but for some they do not provide relief. If you are struggling with depression despite medications, then TMS may be the answer you’ve been looking for.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA approved, non-invasive and well-tolerated treatment that does not cause seizures or require sedation. This is a scientifically supported treatment that is helping thousands of patients around the globe. You can get better, and we can help you.
Efficacy of NeuroStar TMS
Clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of NeuroStar TMS Therapy in treating patients who have not benefited from prior antidepressant medication. NeuroStar TMS Therapy was studied in adult patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder, all of whom had not received satisfactory improvement with previous treatments.
Durability of TMS Treatments
NeuroStar TMS is the only TMS system with the durability of its effects established over 12 months.
In a trial with physicians directed standard of care, meaning NeuroStar TMS Therapy could be used in conjunction with antidepressants as needed, patients who had received treatment then reported their symptom levels at 3,6,9, and 12 months to determine the durability of their treatments. By the end of the 12-month period, two out of three patients who had either responded or completely remitted after TMS treatment remained at the symptom levels they reported at the end of the treatment phase.
After the end of the treatment period, only one in three patients needed to come back for maintenance TMS sessions, or ‘reintroduction’ during this 12-month period.
Treatment Algorithm
Additionally, Neuronetics has developed a new tool to use in educating patients on the best practices of treating depression. The Best Practices Treatment Guideline for Depression has been developed to help patients understand TMS Therapy as an option if their first line antidepressant medications stop working. This guideline is based on the 2010 American Psychiatric Association’s practice guidelines and NeuroStar TMS Therapy indication for use, which says:
NeuroStar TMS Therapy is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have failed to achieve satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medication at or above the minimal effective dose and duration in the current episode.
Please see the Treatment Algorithm for an effective illustration of the use of NeuroStar TMS Therapy early on in the treatment of depression.
Note: NeuroStar TMS has not been studied in patients who have not receieved prior antidepressant treatment.
Want to Know if TMS is Right for You?
To find out if TMS is the answer you’ve been looking for, click the QR code to the right or scan it with your phone's camera. Fill out the Short Questionnaire and a Specialist from our TMS Team will contact you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is TMS therapy?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation, also known as repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, is a noninvasive form of brain stimulation in which a magnetic field is used to stimulate nerve cells in the area of the brain that controls mood. These magnetic pulses have a positive effect on the brain’s neurotransmitter levels, making long-term remission from depression possible. TMS is typically used when other depression treatments have not been effective.
What does TMS treat?
TMS is approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat individuals with severe depression who have not responded to medications. TMS is also being used off label for PTSD, OCD, Tinnitus, and other mood disorders, however this is not covered by insurance.
What is a typical TMS session like?
During a TMS session, you will recline comfortably in the treatment chair. A small magnetic coil is placed lightly on your head. You will then hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head as the coil painlessly stimulates nerve cells in the region of your brain involved in mood control and depression. Patients typically listen to music or audio books while they are receiving treatment. You are then able to resume normal activities following the treatment and can drive yourself to and from sessions.
How long does TMS take to start working?
Compared to most antidepressants, which usually take about six weeks to show results, TMS works quickly. Patients report changes in mood starting as early as the first week of treatment.
Who administers TMS?
TMS is prescribed by a physician trained in administering the treatment protocol and the initial motor threshold. The treatment itself is administered by an experienced technician under the supervision of the physician.
How long is a TMS procedure?
TMS therapy involves a series of treatment sessions. Treatment sessions vary in length depending on the TMS coil used and the number of pulses delivered but typically last around 30 – 40 minutes. Patients receive TMS 5 days a week. A typical course of TMS is 4 to 6 weeks. However, this can vary depending on an individual’s response to treatment.
What are the side effects of TMS?
TMS is well-tolerated and associated with few side-effects. The most common side-effect is headaches. These are mild and generally diminish over the course of the treatment. Over-the-counter pain medication can be used to treat these headaches.
Who cannot get TMS therapy?
Patients with any type of non-removable metal in their heads (with the exception of braces or dental fillings), should not receive TMS. Failure to follow this rule could cause the object to heat up, move, or malfunction, and result in serious injury or death. The following is a list of metal implants that can prevent a patient from receiving TMS:
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Aneurysm clips or coils
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Stents in the neck or brain
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Deep brain stimulators
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Electrodes to monitor brain activity
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Metallic implants in your ears and eyes
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Shrapnel or bullet fragments in or near the head
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Facial tattoos with metallic or magnetic-sensitive ink
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Other metal devices or object implanted in or near the head
Can I receive TMS if my insurance plan does not cover it?
At Charak Center for Health and Wellness, we will make every attempt to receive a prior authorization from your insurance carrier for TMS treatment. However, if all attempts are unsuccessful, then you can still receive TMS through our self-pay program. Price per treatment will vary depending on your diagnosis and the severity of your condition. Please give us a call to set up a consultation.