What Is TMS Therapy? A Non-Drug Treatment for Depression

Curious about TMS? Let’s Answer Your Top Questions!

If you’ve been living with depression for a while, are you curious about treatment options beyond medication? One non-drug, non-invasive treatment option is called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). NeuroStar® TMS is an FDA-cleared therapy that has helped over 223,0004 people manage depression symptoms, including those with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD) who haven’t responded to medications.

Image of patient sitting in a NeuroStar chair with treater positioning the coil on her head

What Is TMS?

Cleared by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2008, TMS uses magnetic fields, similar to an MRI, to stimulate nerve cells in the brain that have become dormant during depression. It is considered a safe and effective treatment option without the common side effects of medicine1,9.

How Does NeuroStar TMS Work?

During NeuroStar TMS treatment:

  1. An electromagnetic coil is placed on the scalp over the brain region linked to mood regulation.
  2. The coil delivers magnetic pulses that stimulate nerve cells in this underactive region.
  3. These pulses produce a small electric current that helps revitalize inactive synapses in the brain9.
  4. You remain awake and alert
  5. You may resume normal activities immediately after a session, such as school, work or the gym.

The goal of TMS is to reactivate brain regions involved in mood, helping patients experience relief from depressive symptoms over time.

How Long Does Treatment Take?

Treatment begins with brain mapping, performed by a psychiatrist to determine the optimal location for stimulation. After that:

  • Sessions typically last about 20 minutes, depending on individual treatment plans.
  • Treatments are usually scheduled five days a week.
  • A full course consists of 36 sessions

Completing all prescribed sessions is crucial to achieve the best possible results, similar to completing a round of antibiotics or physical therapy.

Are There Any Side Effects?

TMS is generally well-tolerated, with minimal side effects. The most common include:

  • Mild headache
  • Scalp sensations or tingling

These generally go away after the first week of treatment.

Is TMS Right for You?

TMS may be a suitable option if you:

  • Have Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) or Treatment-Resistant Depression (TRD)
  • Have not fully responded to antidepressant medications and/or talk therapy, or have experienced debilitating side effects from medications
  • Are seeking a non-drug depression treatment option

A qualified provider can assess your situation and determine whether TMS is appropriate for your needs.

Learn More About NeuroStar TMS

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This material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute clinical advice. Neuronetics, Inc. is not a medical provider, does not provide medical or clinical advice, and does not recommend or endorse any medical provider or specific health care service. This material is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are having an emergency, please call 911, or if you are having a mental health emergency, please call 988 or 800-273-8255. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of this content.