For those who are diagnosed with depression, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) offer unique approaches to managing symptoms. Each of these treatments is considered after you have not experienced measurable results using antidepressant medications.
When you have tried three or more antidepressant medications without good results, you may have treatment-resistant depression. However, while these symptoms are challenging, we want you to know that there is hope for treatment. Learn the differences between TMS therapy vs. ECT and schedule an appointment with Dr. Deirmenjian to discuss your options.
TMS therapy was approved by the FDA in 2008 for the treatment of depression, anxious depression, and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Since then, it has become a preferred option for individuals with treatment-resistant depression or those seeking alternative treatments to traditional therapy.
The success of the treatment has caught the eye of researchers who are now researching TMS in the use of other disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, eating disorders, and bipolar disorder.
TMS therapy uses an electromagnetic coil to deliver magnetic fields to targeted brain areas responsible for mood regulation. Imaging studies have demonstrated that these areas of the brain are less active in those with depression.
The magnetic fields stimulate nerve cells and improve symptoms. During the treatment sessions, a padded NeuroStar TMS therapy coil is placed against the scalp to deliver brief magnetic pulses. These pulses pass through the skull and stimulate the area of the brain involved in mood regulation.
TMS therapy is noninvasive, has minimal side effects compared to ECT, and has been effective in treating people who do not respond to antidepressant medications. TMS does not require anesthesia or sedation during treatment so that you can go about your daily activities immediately after treatment.
Electroconvulsive therapy is a medical treatment used for severe major depression that does not respond to other treatments and in cases where an individual is at immediate risk of harming themselves or others.
ECT is performed under general anesthesia and individuals receive a muscle relaxant to help prevent movement during the procedure that may lead to musculoskeletal injury.
During treatment, electrodes are placed on specific areas of the head and currents are administered for a short duration to produce a controlled seizure. The combination of electricity and seizure activity is believed to cause changes in brain chemistry that reverse symptoms of specific mental health conditions.
ECT has been effective in severe depression with individuals who have suicidal ideation, and some psychotic disorders. Rapid symptom improvement happens after several sessions, which can be lifesaving in acute situations.
Side effects from ECT include nausea, fatigue, confusion, headache, and memory loss. You may also experience medical side effects such as an increased heart rate and blood pressure that can lead to heart problems. Memory loss generally improves within several months, but some people have permanent memory gaps.
When you are making the choice of TMS vs. ECT, you should consider several factors. These include the severity of your depression, your previous response to treatment, the potential side effects of treatment, and your personal preference. Dr. Deirmenjian has over 14 years of experience treating patients with TMS therapy and can help you make an informed choice.
TMS is effective for treatment-resistant depression and NeuroStar TMS therapy is the No. 1 physician-recommended option. Clinical trials have demonstrated that 83% of those who complete their treatment cycle experience measurable results, and 62% experience complete remission.
ECT is effective in treating severe depression and certain acute psychiatric emergencies. It has a faster onset of symptom relief when compared to TMS but requires general anesthesia and muscle relaxants and may result in long-term memory gaps.
The side effects of TMS are generally mild. Many people report experiencing a tapping, tingling, or warming sensation in the area where the coil is placed against the scalp. However, this generally resolves quickly and does not appear in the second week of treatment.
ECT can cause significant side effects, including memory loss of events before and after the treatment. ECT also requires hospitalization or anesthesia in an outpatient setting. ECT can involve multiple sessions over a few weeks.
If you experience symptoms of depression despite taking antidepressant medications and making other changes recommended by your physician or therapist, we want you to know that there is hope. NeuroStar TMS therapy has proven to be highly effective in individuals who live in the community and has proven to be treatment-resistant to antidepressant medications.
We encourage you to call today to schedule your consultation with Dr. Deirmenjian to discuss TMS therapy vs. ECT so you can make the best choice possible to treat your depression.