Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression

Authors

Sukaina Rizvi
Ali M. Khan, The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

5-2019

Abstract

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), a research tool with various effects on brain cells, can depolarize cerebral neurons noninvasively. This method offers temporal and spatial resolution and can be combined with other neurocognitive and neuro-experimental techniques. Prefrontal TMS therapy repeated daily for four to six weeks is a neuromodulation technique approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in patients resistant to medications. This technique utilizes electromagnetic induction to excite neuronal cells. Several recent studies have enhanced our understanding of this novel treatment intervention. This report reviews recent studies on the mechanism of action, patient eligibility, effectiveness, and safety of TMS in treating depression.

Recommended Citation

Rizvi S, Khan A M (May 23, 2019) Use of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Depression. Cureus 11(5): e4736. DOI 10.7759/cureus.4736

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 License.

Publication Title

Cureus

DOI

10.7759/cureus.4736

Academic Level

resident

Mentor/PI Department

Psychiatry