Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
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What is it?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation ('TMS' for short) involves placing a magnetic coil next to the scalp. Strong magnetic pulses produce electrical changes in the area of the brain under the coil.
How does it work?
TMS is usually applied to the left front area of the brain. This area is thought to be underactive in depression and TMS increases its activity. TMS is also thought to increase the level of certain neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) in the brain. These neurotransmitters are in short supply in depression.
Is it effective?
TMS is a new treatment and has not received a lot of research as yet. However, the studies carried out so far show only small benefits that disappear after a couple of weeks.
Are there any disadvantages?
TMS sometimes produces a headache or discomfort on the scalp. In very rare cases, it can produce an epileptic fit.
Where do you get it?
TMS is still an experimental treatment and not in widespread use. It is being used for research purposes in a small number of teaching hospitals in Australia.
Recommendation
The initial findings on TMS do not look promising. However, this is a new treatment and further research is needed.
Key references
Martin JLR, Barbanoj MJ, Schlaepfer TE, Thompson E, Perez V, Kulisevsky J. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of depression: systematic review and meta-analysis. British Journal of Psychiatry 2003; 182: 480-491.