TMS Therapy

NeuroStar uses transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to target key areas of the brain that are underactive in people with depression. It is not ECT (electroconvulsive therapy).

While the exact cause of depression is not known, the leading scientific theory is that it is caused by an imbalance of the brain’s neurotransmitters, which are chemical messengers that send signals between brain cells.

What is TMS Therapy?

During a TMS Therapy treatment session, a magnet similar in strength to that used in a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine is used to stimulate nerve cells in the area of the brain thought to control mood. These magnetic pulses may have a positive effect on the brain’s neurotransmitter levels,
making long-term remission possible.

TMS Therapy is easy:

• Therapy sessions are conducted in your NeuroStar doctor’s office
• You can return to normal activities right away
• You are awake during treatment
• There are no negative effects on memory or sleep
• It’s covered by most health insurance plans, including Medicare and Tricare

With more than three million treatments delivered, this novel treatment approach to achieving remission is bringing new hope to people every day.

How TMS Therapy Works

Here’s what you can expect from a TMS Therapy session:

Before Treatment
You’ll recline comfortably in the treatment chair. A small, curved magnetic coil will be positioned lightly on your head.

During Treatment
TMS Therapy delivers focused magnetic stimulation directly to the target areas of the brain. You’ll hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head.

After Treatment
TMS Therapy: Depending on your doctor’s recommendation, each treatment takes between 19 and 37 minutes.

You can resume normal activities immediately.
Because there are no effects on alertness or memory, you can drive yourself to and from treatment sessions.

In-office treatment with TMS Therapy typically takes 19-37 minutes and is administered 5 days a week for approximately 4-6 weeks.*