Brain Stimulation for Depression

New research suggests that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may offer a less disruptive way to use electromagnetic energy against depression, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric disorders.

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been used in the past to treat depression and other psychiatric disorders but it can produce short-term confusion and memory loss, and patients require general anesthesia and muscle relaxants.

In contrast, TMS produces stimulation that is much milder and more localized than ECT. An electrical generator produces a series of strong magnetic fields in a wire coil, which is mounted on a paddle and positioned on or near a patient's forehead or scalp. The fluctuating magnetic force produces an electrical current that influences neurons in the area directly under the coil. Moreover, the magnetic field can be applied to fully conscious patients, who feel no pain and can read and talk during treatment and drive home afterward. Memory is not affected.

More than 30 studies are now testing the potential of TMS for treating conditions such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, and cerebral palsy, according to the August 3, 2005, issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter (Harvard Medical School; Boston, USA). The letter also reported that about 40% of patients with medication-resistant depression show some improvement after TMS. The findings on the effects of TMS on schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder are mixed. A controlled study showed that TMS was no more effective than sham treatment for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder.




Related Links:
Harvard Mental Health Letter