How Many Treatments, and How Often
- The typical FDA-studied course is 30 to 36 sessions, usually one per weekday for about six weeks.
- Session length varies from 3 to 20 minutes, depending on the device and protocol.
Maintenance or Preventive TMS
- Some patients benefit from less frequent sessions after the acute course. Evidence is still preliminary, and insurance coverage varies.
- It is safe to repeat courses if clinically needed.
Anything People Should Avoid While Completing TMS?
- Alcohol: It depresses the central nervous system, entrenches depressive symptoms, and reduces neuroplasticity. Abstaining improves the odds of success.
- Recreational substances, including unregulated cannabinoid products: Data for mental health benefits are limited, quality varies, and anxiety can worsen.
- Overusing pain relievers: Keep acetaminophen or ibuprofen to two or three days per week unless your clinician advises otherwise.
Do You Pair TMS With Other Treatments?
Yes. People who combine TMS with evidence-based medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes tend to improve more and stay well longer.
What Are the Negatives of TMS Therapy?
TMS therapy is generally well tolerated, with most side effects being mild and short-lived. Common reactions include scalp tenderness or headaches early in the course, as well as brief facial or jaw twitching during stimulation. Importantly, these side effects typically resolve quickly, and patients are usually able to resume normal activities immediately.
Author: Dr. Hong Yin
Hong Yin, MD, has been a practicing medical professional for the Milwaukee community since 2012. She understands that your health and wellness concerns extend beyond routine medical care. She’s a highly trained, board-certified psychiatrist who provides an array of comprehensive services and procedures to help people overcome mental health problems.