TMS

Q: What is NeuroStar Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)?

NeuroStar TMS is a non-drug, noninvasive treatment that uses focused magnetic fields to revitalize underactive areas of the brain to improve symptoms of depression. NeuroStar is a safe, effective depression treatment for people who have not found relief from antidepressants.

 

Q: How does NeuroStar TMS work?

NeuroStar uses focused magnetic pulses (similar in strength to an MRI), to revitalize underactive areas of the brain involved in regulating mood. When these regions are underactive, depression can result. “Waking up” these regions can have a lasting effect on depression, making long-term remission from depression a reality for many people.

 

Q: How long is NeuroStar TMS treatment?

A typical NeuroStar treatment plan includes 36 sessions that each last between 19-37 minutes. Your doctor will determine what is right for you. Completing the full NeuroStar treatment course gives the best chance for delivering long-lasting relief from depression.

 

Q: Is NeuroStar TMS Therapy covered by my insurance?

NeuroStar is covered by most major insurance plans, including Medicare and Tricare. Over 300 million people have insurance plans that cover NeuroStar.

 

Q: Is NeuroStar TMS Therapy a good alternative for patients who cannot tolerate the side effects of antidepressant medications?

NeuroStar is a safe and effective treatment without the systemic side effects of medication. The most common side effect is mild to moderate pain or discomfort at the treatment site. For most patients this subsides within the first week of treatment.

 

Q: Is NeuroStar TMS Therapy like other alternative therapies that use magnets to treat some illnesses?

No. TMS Therapy involves a unique method of using pulsed magnetic fields for a therapeutic benefit. The intensity of the magnetic field is similar to that of an MRI. These techniques differ radically from the popular use of low intensity, static magnetic fields. Those products deliver weak and undirected static fields that are not capable of activating brain cells. The activation and stimulation of brain cells is a key part of why TMS is so effective.