If you have depression and medications aren’t working, there are other treatment options available. One alternative is Transcrnial Magnetic Stimulation, or TMS. Dr. Irakli Mania, a psychiatrist and the Medical Director of Keystone Behavioral Health, often sees life-changing improvements in his patients who receive this treatment. He explains more about TMS in today’s Take Care article.
What is TMS?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a non-invasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. It is most commonly used to treat depression, particularly in individuals who have not responded adequately to antidepressant medications and psychotherapy. TMS is FDA-approved, and is a safe and effective treatment supported by expansive research over the span of four decades.
How does it work?
Depending on the diagnosis, the medical provider will determine which area of the brain to treat. For depression, we typically target the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, which is the part of the brain responsible for mood regulation and cognitive function. The magnetic pulses activate underactive neural circuits thought to contribute to depression. Unlike antidepressant medications, which affect brain chemistry throughout the entire body, TMS directly stimulates specific brain regions without requiring systemic medication. As a result, it does not produce the typical medication-related side effects such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction or gastrointestinal symptoms.
What are the treatments like?
During a TMS session, the patient sits comfortably in a chair while a magnetic coil is placed gently against the scalp. The device delivers brief magnetic pulses that may feel like a tapping sensation on the head, which is not painful. Patients remain awake and alert throughout the treatment and can resume normal activities immediately afterward. Depending on the protocol this may last between three minutes and 20 minutes.
How frequent are the treatments?
TMS is typically administered five days per week over several weeks. A standard course of treatment usually lasts about six to seven weeks, though schedules can vary depending on the diagnosis, the specific protocol and the patient’s clinical response.
Are there side effects?
TMS is generally well tolerated. The most common side effects include mild scalp discomfort or headache during or shortly after treatment. These effects are usually temporary and tend to improve as treatment continues. Serious side effects are rare.
Is it effective long term?
Many patients experience significant and sustained improvement in their symptoms following a full course of TMS. According to some studies, half of the patients are still better one year after the initial treatment. Some individuals may require occasional maintenance treatments if symptoms return, but many maintain benefits long after completing treatment.
Who would be a good candidate for TMS?
TMS is typically recommended for individuals with major depressive disorder who have not achieved sufficient relief from one or more antidepressant medications, or who cannot tolerate medication side effects. It may also be appropriate for individuals seeking a non-medication treatment option.
Is it covered by insurance?
Most major insurance providers, including Medicare, cover TMS for treatment-resistant depression when specific clinical criteria are met. Coverage policies vary by insurer, and prior authorization is often required. Typicaly insurance carriers are looking for medication and psychotherapy failures, but these requirements have been relaxed over time.
Conclusion
TMS has become an increasingly important treatment option in modern psychiatry. It offers a non-invasive, medication-free approach that can provide meaningful relief for individuals who have struggled with persistent depression. As research continues, new protocols and applications for TMS are being developed, expanding its potential role in mental health care.
Keystone Behavioral Health is proud to offer TMS treatment. Click here to learn more, or contact us at 717-709-7933.
This article contains general information only and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis, treatment or care by a qualified health care provider.
