When your major depressive disorder (MDD) does not respond to counseling and medication, NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) might be a good alternative. Because it is considered a non-traditional treatment, you may have some questions. Check out the FAQs below.
NeuroStar treats MDD by balancing the neurons in your brain with electromagnetic fields. A coil is placed against your scalp, and when a magnetic pulse passes through the coil, it generates a magnetic field. These pulses stimulate or modulate the activity of nerve cells that regulate neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine.
Some of the main benefits of TMS therapy are that it is not invasive and does not use medication, surgery, or anesthesia. As a result, side effects are often minimal. Treatment is precise as the procedure targets specific areas of your brain. There is no recovery time, and you can remain awake during treatment. Results are typically long-lasting.
You may be a good candidate for NeuroStar TMS Therapy when medications or psychotherapy have not helped your MDD.
TMS therapy might not be for you if you have a history of seizures, metal objects in or around your head, are pregnant, or breastfeeding. The recommended course of treatment typically involves daily sessions over several weeks, so contact our office to determine if you qualify.
In addition to MDD, TMS therapy can also help with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and anxious depression.
Every person responds differently. You may notice results within the first few weeks, or it may take a little longer. Results are usually long-lasting.
The most common side effect is temporary discomfort at the treatment site, which usually resolves within the first week. Rare side effects may include:
● Toothaches
● Muscle twitches
● Pain in your face, skin, and eyes.
There is also a rare risk of seizure. However, TMS is safe for most if you do not have non-removable conductive metal or stimulator implants near or in your head. This treatment should not be used if you have active or inactive implants, like a deep brain stimulator, cochlear implants, or Vagus nerve stimulators.
You might experience mild headaches or sensations on your scalp, such as tingling, tapping, or light pressure. Because the coil is placed against your scalp, there may be mild discomfort or pressure at the treatment site. This is usually temporary and usually does not cause lasting pain.
If the treatment is uncomfortable, let your practitioner know, and the parameters can be adjusted.
When your MDD, OCD, or anxious depression is not responsive to traditional treatment methods, NeuroStar TMS Therapy may be a helpful option. If you have any additional questions, give us a call today. We are happy to schedule an initial consultation in Corpus Christi at your convenience.
NeuroStar Indication Statement:
Adult Indications for Use
The NeuroStar Advanced Therapy System is indicated for the treatment of depressive episodes and for decreasing anxiety symptoms for those who may exhibit comorbid anxiety symptoms in adult patients suffering from Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and who failed to achieve satisfactory improvement from previous antidepressant medication treatment in the current episode.
The NeuroStar Advanced Therapy System is intended to be used as an adjunct for the treatment of adult patients suffering from Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD).
Adolescent Indications for Use
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is indicated as an adjunct for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adolescent patients (15-21).
Important Safety Information
NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is only available by prescription. A doctor can help decide if NeuroStar Advanced Therapy is right for you. Patients’ results may vary.
The most common side effect is pain or discomfort at or near the treatment site. These events are transient; they occur during the TMS treatment course and do not occur for most patients after the first week of treatment. There is a rare risk of seizure associated with the use of TMS therapy (<0.1% per patient).
Visit neurostar.com for full safety and prescribing information.
