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By Mayo Clinic staffBefore having the procedure, you may need a medical examination to make sure it's safe and a good option for you. You may be asked a number of questions about your depression. Tell your doctor or health provider if:
- You're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant.
- You have any metal or implanted medical devices in your body. Transcranial magnetic stimulation usually isn't recommended if this is the case.
- You're taking any medications, including over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements or vitamins. Bring a list of what you're taking to your doctor's appointment and include dosages and how often you take them.
- You have a history of seizures or mania. Tell your doctor about any past injuries or surgeries and about any other physical or mental health problems you have.
Little preparation is needed. Transcranial magnetic stimulation isn't invasive, doesn't require anesthesia and can be performed in a doctor's office. You don't need to arrange for someone to drive you home after treatment. Before considering treatment, however, check with your health insurance company to see whether transcranial magnetic stimulation is covered. Your policy may not cover it.
- Padberg F, et al. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation of the prefrontal cortex in depression. Experimental Neurology. 2009;219:2.
- Kim D, et al. Transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of psychiatric disorders. Current Psychiatry Reports. 2009;11:447.
- Loo CK, et al. A review of the safety of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation as a clinical treatment for depression. International Journal of Neuropsychopharmacology. 2008;11:131.
- George MS, et al. Nonpharmacological somatic treatments. In: Hales RE, et al. The American Psychiatric Publishing Textbook of Psychiatry. 5th ed. Arlington, Va.: American Psychiatric Publishing; 2008. http://www.psychiatryonline.com/content.aspx?aid=338825. Accessed June 21, 2010.
- Barbara Woodward Lips Patient Education Center. Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). Rochester, Minn.: Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; 2009.
- Rossini, Paolo M, et al. Transcranial magnetic stimulation: Diagnostic, therapeutic, and research potential. Neurology. 2007;68:484.
- Fitzgerald, Paul B, et al. The use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and vagal nerve stimulation in the treatment of depression. Current Opinion in Psychiatry. 2008;21:25.
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