Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has emerged as a revolutionary tool in the treatment of Depression, offering hope for those who have not benefited from other therapies. A key question often posed by both patients and practitioners is: how many sessions are needed for TMS to work most effectively? This article addresses the optimal number of TMS sessions required to achieve the best therapeutic outcome, paving the way for personalized Depression management.
TMS Treatment
TMS offers an innovative approach to treating Depression by utilizing magnetic fields to stimulate less active areas of the brain. This non-invasive method focuses on the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), a key region in the cerebrum that influences mood. In Depression, activity is typically diminished in the left DLPFC and heightened in the right DLPFC. TMS works to rebalance these activity levels, promoting increased function in underactive areas and reducing overexcitement in others. Having received FDA approval in 2008, TMS represents a safe and effective option, especially for individuals whose Depression has not responded to other treatments.
Typically, the treatment schedule consists of five sessions per week, each lasting between 3 to 20 minutes, over 7-8 weeks. During these sessions, patients sit comfortably and remain fully awake and alert throughout the procedure, which is both non-convulsive and non-invasive. One of the major advantages of TMS is that it does not impair cognitive functions or alertness, allowing patients to travel to and from their appointments safely.
How Many Sessions for TMS to Work?
A study published in the Brain Stimulation journal examines how many sessions for TMS to be most effective, by exploring the relationship between the number of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) sessions and clinical outcomes in patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Data was analyzed from 7,215 MDD patients who had undergone TMS treatment. The study found that:
- A strong correlation exists between the number of TMS sessions and the reduction in depressive symptoms. Increasing the number of TMS sessions lessens Depression symptoms.
- Patients undergoing longer TMS courses continue to benefit from extended treatment.
- Patients receiving fewer than 30 sessions had worse outcomes than those receiving more sessions.
- Rapid improvement in Depression symptoms was often seen in patients during treatment within the first 10 sessions. After the 10th treatment, patients steadily continued to improve.
- The most significant symptom reduction was observed in patients who completed 36 sessions.
- Extended treatment (more than 36 sessions) showed continued improvement without signs of plateauing in antidepressant effects.
- The group data revealed no evidence that the antidepressant effects of TMS reached a plateau with additional treatment.
In summary, the more sessions completed, the more benefits. It’s recommended that those suffering from Depression should undergo at least 36 sessions to optimize results, which is the course of treatment we routinely recommend and provide at Mid City TMS. In addition, we sometimes provide more than 36 sessions when warranted, including for those patients who are improved, but not fully improved in the severity of their symptoms.
Schedule a Session with MidCity TMS
Scheduling an appointment with Mid City TMS could be a transformative step toward overcoming Depression, especially if other treatments have been ineffective. Our team of dedicated professionals is well-versed in the latest TMS techniques and strategies and committed to providing personalized care. At Mid City TMS we strive to create a supportive, welcoming environment that encourages healing. Choosing Mid City TMS means accessing a therapy that has a proven track record. If you’re seeking a new approach to managing Depression, schedule your appointment today. Contact us at 212-517-1867 or email [email protected] to get started.