Patient FAQ – Frequent Asked Questions

What is TMS?

What is TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation? It is a non-invasive treatment where magnetic pulses are delivered to stimulate nerve cells in the part of the brain controlling the mood, which is often underactive in patients with depression.

Repeated stimulation of this part of the brain has proven to produce an antidepressant effect on people suffering from depression. TMS is also known as rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) because more than one magnetic pulse is delivered to the brain during a treatment session.

Who can get TMS treatment?

TMS is indicated for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder in adult patients who have failed to receive satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medication in the current episode. Your doctor will use medication dosing records and depression scores among other measures to determine whether or not you are a candidate for TMS therapy using Magventure technology.

How does TMS feel like?

The magnetic coil which delivers the TMS is positioned on the left front side of the head, over the part of the brain called the Left Dorso-Lateral Prefrontal Cortex. You will hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head when the magnetic pulses are delivered. Many patients are able to watch television or read during treatment.

Are there any side effects to TMS Therapy?

The treatment is without the side effects typically experienced with antidepressants. Some patients report of a mild discomfort or headache, but you should be able to resume your daily activities right after treatment. However, please note that TMS Therapy is a medical procedure and any side effects experienced during or after receiving the therapy should be reported to your doctor.

How long does TMS therapy take?

MagVenture TMS Therapy is offered either as Express TMS® which lasts 3.9 minutes or as standard TMS, lasting 18.8-37.5 minutes. One treatment is given per day, 5 times per week, over a period of 4-6 weeks.

Do I need to get follow-up treatment?

You should discuss long-term treatment planning with your doctor, including possible maintenance treatment.