If you’ve been struggling with depression or other mental health conditions and haven’t found relief with traditional treatments, you might be wondering: is TMS safe? In this article, we’ll explore the safety of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and help you determine whether it could be a good option for your mental health journey.
What Is TMS Therapy and is it Safe?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. At McLean Neuropsychiatric Treatment Center (NTC), we provide TMS treatment for individuals who haven’t responded to conventional treatments for depression. TMS is also for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), migraines, and smoking cessation.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) first approved TMS for depression in 2008, and researchers continue to explore its expanding medical applications.
How TMS Works and its Safety Mechanisms
During a TMS session, a healthcare provider places a magnetic coil against your scalp. For depression treatment, the coil is positioned over the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC)—a brain region responsible for emotional regulation.
The device sends magnetic pulses into the brain, generating small electrical currents. The includes:
- Increased neuronal activity in brain regions involved in mood regulation (like the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex for depression treatment), which indirectly affects neurotransmitter systems.
- Increased availability of the neurotransmitters serotonin, dopamine, and glutamate over time, contributing to mood improvement.
- Enhanced long-term potentiation (LTP) and synaptic plasticity, helping the brain form new connections and improve communication between regions implicated in depression.
- Modulation of dysfunctional neural circuits implicated in mood disorders particularly the prefrontal-limbic network, which includes the prefrontal cortex, amygdala, and hippocampus.
- Repeated stimulation can help reset or normalize brain activity patterns over time.
- Enhance neuroplasticity, helping the brain form new connections and reset dysfunctional circuits linked to depression.
Unlike invasive procedures such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS requires no surgery or anesthesia. You’ll remain awake and alert throughout the session, and after treatment, you can typically resume your daily activities with no downtime. Most patients experience only a mild tapping sensation on the scalp.
What are the common side effects of TMS?
TMS is generally well-tolerated, but some individuals may experience mild side effects during or after treatment, such as:
- Scalp discomfort at the treatment site
- Mild headaches
- Tingling or facial muscle spasms
These side effects are usually temporary and tend to diminish as treatment progresses. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate headaches if needed. Your healthcare provider will discuss potential side effects with you before beginning treatment.
Are there serious risks of TMS?
While TMS is considered a safe treatment, there are rare but serious risks to be aware of.
Seizure Risk
The most significant risk is the possibility of a seizure, though this is extremely rare. A study of found that the risk of seizure was 0.00008% when treatment was administered according to published guidelines.
Manic Episodes (Hypomania)
TMS has been associated with rare cases of nia, a state of heightened energy and activity. In some patients with depression, TMS-induced mania was , but symptoms subsided once the treatment protocol was adjusted.
Hearing Changes
ng loss or changes in hearing have been reported in rare cases, but this risk can be minimized by wearing earplugs during treatment.
At McLean NTC, we follow strict FDA guidelines to ensure that TMS is both safe and effective for our patients. Our team closely monitors each session, prioritizing patient safety and comfort.
Who should avoid TMS?
TMS is not suitable for everyone. If you have one of the following conditions, you should consult with your healthcare provider before undergoing TMS therapy, as it may not be appropriate. Contraindications include:
- Metal implants in or near the head (except for dental fillings), such as aneurysm clips, stents, or cochlear implants, as TMS may pose a safety risk.
- Electronic medical devices, including pacemakers, implanted neurostimulators, or deep brain stimulators, as the magnetic fields can interfere with their function.
- History of seizures or epilepsy, as TMS may lower the seizure threshold and increase the risk of seizure activity.
- Serious brain injuries or conditions, such as a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI) or stroke, which may increase the likelihood of adverse effects.
- History of bipolar disorder or psychotic disorders, particularly those with a history of mania or psychosis, as TMS may trigger manic episodes or worsen symptoms in some cases.
If you’re unsure whether TMS is right for you, our psychiatrist at McLean NTC will review your medical history and assess whether TMS is a safe option for you.
Does TMS Interact with Other Medications?
TMS does not typically interact with medications, and most patients are encouraged to continue their antidepressants during treatment.
However, certain medications—such as nzodiazepines—may reduce the effectiveness of TMS. If you decide to undergo TMS therapy at McLean NTC, our psychiatrist will review your current medications and recommend any necessary adjustments.
TMS Therapy at McLean NTC
At McLean NTC, we offer personalized TMS treatment for individuals who haven’t found relief from depression with traditional treatments.
Why Choose Us?
- Advanced Technology: We use state-of-the-art TMS equipment for precise, effective treatment.
- Comfortable Outpatient Setting: Relax in a supportive environment designed for your well-being.
- Expert Monitoring: Our experienced team tracks your progress, making adjustments as needed to ensure optimal results.
Take the Next Step Toward Healing
If you’re considering TMS therapy for depression or other mental health conditions, McLean NTC in Virginia is here to help. nsultation today to learn more about how TMS can support your mental health journey.
Key Takeaways
- TMS is a safe, noninvasive treatment that stimulates brain activity to improve mood disorders.
- Most patients experience only mild side effects, such as scalp discomfort at the coil site or headaches.
- Serious risks, like seizures, are extremely rare and minimized through careful administration.
- TMS does not typically interact with medications, but some drugs may reduce its effectiveness.
- McLean NTC provides expert-led, personalized TMS treatment in a comfortable and supportive environment.