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FAQ's about TMS therapy
What is TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) Therapy and how does it work?
TMS is a non-invasive, FDA-cleared treatment that helps “wake up” the parts of the brain involved in mood. It uses gentle magnetic pulses—similar to the strength of an MRI—to stimulate underactive brain areas linked to depression and other conditions. During treatment, a small device rests comfortably on your head while the pulses do their work. There’s no surgery, no anesthesia, and no downtime—most patients relax, watch TV, or listen to music and return to their day right after.
Is NeuroStar TMS therapy covered by my insurance?
Yes by most insurances. Call us today to discuss your insurance coverage and treatment options.
Is TMS Therapy uncomfortable?
Most patients find TMS therapy very well tolerated. During treatment, you may feel a tapping or clicking sensation on your scalp where the device is placed. This sensation is usually mild to moderate and often becomes more comfortable as your body adjusts over the first few sessions. Patients are able to relax, or watch TV during treatment.
Is TMS therapy like ECT (electroconvulsive therapy)?
Not at all! TMS is a much gentler, modern treatment. There’s no anesthesia, no sedation, and no memory loss. You stay awake and comfortable while gentle magnetic pulses target specific areas of the brain—many patients relax, watch TV, or scroll on their phone during treatment. ECT, by contrast, requires anesthesia and induces a controlled seizure. With TMS, you can get right back to your day afterward.
Does NeuroStar TMS therapy cause side effects and memory loss?
NeuroStar TMS therapy does NOT cause memory loss or problems with concentration. Clinical trials have shown no adverse effects on memory or cognition. The most common side effect is temporary scalp discomfort during treatment, which usually resolves within the first week. Fewer than 5% of patients discontinued treatment due to side effects. There is a very rare risk of seizure, occurring in less than 0.1% of patients.
What is a typical course of treatment with NeuroStar TMS Therapy?
A typical course of NeuroStar TMS therapy involves sessions five days a week for about 4–6 weeks. Each session lasts approximately 20–30 minutes, and patients can return to normal activities immediately afterward.
How long do TMS effects last and will I need any therapy beyond the first treatment?
Many patients experience long-lasting relief after completing a full NeuroStar TMS treatment course, which typically lasts 4–6 weeks. Results can last months to a year or longer. If symptoms return, some patients may benefit from additional or maintenance treatments, which are decided on an individual basis with their provider.
Does NeuroStar TMS have FDA-clearance
YES. NeuroStar TMS Therapy is FDA-cleared and has multiple clearances based on extensive clinical evidence. It was first cleared in 2008 for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adults who have not achieved satisfactory improvement with antidepressant medications.
Since then, the FDA has expanded NeuroStar’s clearances to include:
- Treatment of anxious depression (major depression with comorbid anxiety).
- Adjunctive treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in adults.
- Adjunctive treatment for Major Depressive Disorder in adolescents (ages 15–21).
These FDA clearances reflect that NeuroStar has met strict regulatory standards for safety and effectiveness in these indications.
