Are you or a loved one struggling with major depressive disorder? Have you obtained no or inadequate relief from antidepressants, or is it difficult to tolerate the side effects? Maybe MagVenture TMS Therapy could be the solution? Below you will find answers to some of the questions you may have.

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1. What is TMS?

TMS is a non-invasive treatment where magnetic pulses are delivered to stimulate nerve cells in the part of the brain controlling the mood, which is often underactive in patients with depression. Repeated stimulation of this part of the brain has proven to produce an antidepressant effect on people suffering from depression. TMS is also known as rTMS (repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation) because more than one magnetic pulse is delivered to the brain during a treatment session.

 

2. Am I a candidate for TMS?

TMS is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adult patients who have failed to receive satisfactory improvement from prior antidepressant medication in the current episode. MagVenture TMS Therapy is available by prescription only. Your doctor will use medication dosing records and depression scores among other measures to determine whether or not you are a candidate for MagVenture TMS Therapy.

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3. How long does it take?

MagVenture TMS Therapy is offered as standard TMS, lasting 19-37 minutes. One treatment is given per day, 5 times per week, over a period of 4-6 weeks.

 

4. What does TMS feel like?

You sit in a chair in a relaxed position. When the magnetic pulses are delivered you hear a clicking sound and feel a tapping sensation on your head. Many patients are able to watch television or read during treatment.

 

5. Are there any side effects to MagVenture TMS therapy?

TMS treatment is without the side effects typically experienced with antidepressants, such as weight gain and sexual dysfunction. TMS may, for some, cause headache or nausea, but you should be able to resume your daily activities right after treatment. However, please note that TMS Therapy is a medical procedure and any side effects experienced during or after receiving the therapy should be reported to your doctor.

 

6. Is TMS covered by my insurance?

TMS is reimbursed by most insurance providers. Their policies may, however, vary. Pre-authorization, treater requirements (MD, CMA, RNP, RN etc.), number of drug failures, to name a few, can impact claim approvals. Always refer to your insurer’s policy guides.