TMS

Luckily new discoveries in the treatment of depression are continuously being made. One such discovery is TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), which is a new and promising form of treatment. We hope that TMS can become supplementary in the treatment of depression but so far it is still at the research stage.

The method has certain similarities to ECT, but unlike ECT it doesn't provoke a convulsive fit. The treatment is furthermore carried out without giving an anaesthetic. Perhaps TMS can replace ECT partially in the future but it is still too unsafe to be able to say anything specific about that.

The treatment is carried out by placing an electromagnet on the scalp over the temple region on either the right or left side of the head. When we send current through a bi-directional coil, a pulsating magnetic field is created. This provokes a localised electrical current in the brain underneath the coil, which activates the brain cells.

Effectiveness

The method is so relatively new that we cannot say anything for certain about its effectiveness. In a number of trials, TMS has however had a quick and safe effect on depressions but there are still many unanswered questions.

Unfortunately, it looks like the effect only lasts a couple of weeks. It is therefore necessary to find a combination of preventive medicinal treatment and TMS.

The only side-effect that has been registered is a mild headache. The headache comes from tension in the muscles around the head and a normal headache tablet will make the headache go away. It is very positive that there are no signs of memory disturbances in connection with TMS treatment.

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