If you are experiencing major depression and have not benefited from prior antidepressant medication, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) may be an option. TMS is an FDA-approved, non-invasive, non-drug treatment where targeted magnetic pulses stimulate key areas of the brain that are underactive in people with depression.

• Only available by prescription: For additional information call our TMS Coordinator for a free consultation.
• Psychiatrists on staff conduct the initial consultation and develop an individualized treatment plan.
• None of the side effects often associated with medications. TMS does not have the negative side effects associated with medication management.
• Many patients’ depression symptoms significantly improve or go away after 4-6 weeks of treatment.
• Available for adults 22 - 70 years; Available for ages 17+, pending insurance carrier and coverage.

What should I expect during treatment?
Treatments are conducted in a private and comfortable setting. A small curved device is positioned over the head and delivers the electric pulses. Patients are awake and alert during treatment and each session lasts about 18-37 minutes. Treatments are administered five days a week, for approximately six weeks. Patients can go back to their normal activities immediately after treatment.

Are there side effects?
In clinical trials, fewer than 5 percent of patients discontinued TMS due to adverse side effects. The most common side effects are headaches, or mild pain or discomfort at or near the treatment site during treatment. These typically only occur during the first week of treatment.

What are the success rates?
In an independent randomized controlled trial funded by the National Institute for Mental Health, patients treated with TMS were four times more likely to feel better than patients who did not receive the treatment. Studies done over six to 12 months show 65-70 percent of people continue to benefit from treatment.

What are some of the other hospitals that offer TMS?

• Johns Hopkins Hospital
• Mayo Clinic
• Walter Reed
• Stanford Hospital
• Boston University
  
  

Is TMS right for me?
If you agree with two or more of the following statements, TMS may be a good alternative for you:

• Depressive symptoms have interfered with my daily life
• I have tried at least 3-4 antidepressants without achieving results
• I have switched medications for depression due to side effects
• I am interested in a proven, non-drug therapy for depression

Is TMS covered by insurance and what is the cost?
Nationally, approximately 200 million people have insurance plans with policies that cover TMS. We will assist you with obtaining required prior authorization. You will also have access to the NeuroStar Care Connection Program, a free service that can help you with insurance submission, reimbursement and appeals. Because insurance benefits vary, coverage is not guaranteed.

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