Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) FAQs
Click on our link to fill out a PHQ-9 depression scale and view a short video about TMS treatment. Your information will be sent to our TrackStar benefits verifier, and you will be contacted by our TMS Coordinator, Laura Berg, LICSW for a consultation.
NEUROSTAR IS SAFE WITH NO SYSTEMIC SIDE EFFECTS
Many patients experience side effects from their medication, increasing the chance that they will stop taking them.
Who is TMS Therapy indicated for?
- Adults
- OCD
- Major Depressive Disorder diagnosis without psychotic features
- Unsatisfactory benefit from anti-depressant medication trial
Is it safe?
Revive has partnered with NeuroStar. NeuroStar has been rated as the #1 TMS choice of doctors, with over 4.3 million treatments performed to date. During these treatments the most common side effects include moderate scalp discomfort and mild headaches. Most of these symptoms go away after the first week of treatment.
Are there side effects?
With TMS, the most common side effects are temporary scalp discomfort. Some patients also experience eye pain, toothache, facial pain, muscle twitching and pain on the skin. These symptoms 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 seizures associated with the use of TMS therapy (<.1% per patient).
What are the TMS treatments like?
You get to relax in a comfortable reclining chair. You will feel a tapping sensation on the front part of the left side of your head. Everyone perceives the pulses differently, and your provider can make adjustments, so you are more comfortable.
Is it FDA cleared?
Yes, TMS was FDA cleared in Canada in 2003 and the US in 2008.
Will I be able to continue with my regular activities?
Yes, you will be awake and alert during the treatment and may resume regular activities immediately afterward.
How long does the treatment take?
For the best results, you will complete 36 treatments, over six weeks. It is important to complete the full number of treatment sessions prescribed by your doctor.
Do I have to and/or will I be able to stop taking my antidepressant medications?
Our psychiatrist will discuss your medications during the clinical consultation, but most likely he will ask you to stay on your meds and be consistent. He will evaluate you again upon completion of TMS treatment to see if you can stop any medications and/or take a lesser dose. Be sure to discuss this with your provider if this is a goal for you.
When will I start to feel relief from my depression symptoms?
Clinical studies show that patients feel a therapeutic benefit around Week 4. Some people begin to experience symptom relief sooner while others feel it later.
How long has TMS been studied?
TMS has been studied for over 30 years since 1985. NeuroStar was FDA cleared in 2008 for treatment of Major Depressive Disorder.
Do I need to come every day for treatment?
You will need to come 5 days a week for 4-6 weeks and most likely for 3 additional weeks to slowly step down your treatment. The Provider will make his/her recommendation during your Clinical Consultation.
What if I miss some treatments?
If you miss a day(s) due to unforeseen circumstances (illness, injury, etc), we will make a recommendation on how to proceed with treatment. However, if you have planned time away (vacation, etc) then our psychiatrist will decide whether to start your TMS treatment before or after your time away.
