Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive brain stimulation treatment used for conditions like major depression and other mental health conditions. While it’s known as a safe and effective alternative for those who haven’t responded to traditional treatments, many people still wonder: is TMS therapy safe? Like any medical procedure, TMS does carry some risks and side effects. This article breaks down the risks of TMS—from common side effects to rare complications—so you can make an informed decision about your mental health care.
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Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a type of neuromodulation therapy that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. A healthcare provider places a magnetic coil against the patient’s scalp, delivering repeated magnetic pulses to areas linked to mood regulation—typically the left prefrontal cortex.
It’s primarily used for treatment-resistant depression, meaning patients haven’t improved with medication or therapy. TMS has been FDA approved for major depressive disorder and has also shown promise in treating anxiety, OCD, and PTSD.
Because TMS doesn’t involve surgery, anesthesia, or systemic medications, it’s generally considered safe. However, it’s important to understand the TMS treatment risks before starting.
Most side effects of TMS are mild and go away shortly after a session. In clinical trials and real-world settings, the most frequently reported TMS therapy side effects include:
These side effects are typically short-term and fade as the brain adjusts to stimulation. If discomfort becomes an issue, providers may adjust the intensity or positioning of the magnetic coil to improve comfort.
Although rare, some patients report other reactions to TMS treatments. These include:
Protective earplugs are typically provided during each TMS session to prevent hearing loss from the clicking sound of the magnetic pulses.
Though TMS is noninvasive and doesn’t involve sedation like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), it still carries rare but serious risks. One of the most serious is the seizure risk. While seizures are extremely rare, they have occurred in a small number of patients, especially those with a history of epilepsy or certain neurological conditions.
Other uncommon but potential transcranial magnetic stimulation side effects include:
Because of these rare reactions, it’s important to inform your provider of any personal or family history of neurological issues before starting TMS.
When it comes to TMS and brain safety, clinical research continues to show that the treatment does not cause brain damage or long-term harm. Studies comparing brain imaging before and after TMS treatments have not revealed structural changes or neurotoxicity.
In fact, TMS is often viewed as safer than medications for some patients, especially those who cannot tolerate antidepressants due to side effects. That said, long-term effects of TMS are still being studied, and patients should be monitored closely during and after treatment.
If you’re still unsure, talk to your doctor about how TMS compares to other options like electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) or medications. They can help assess if this treatment option fits your unique mental health needs.
While TMS is safe for most people, it is not recommended for everyone. Individuals with the following should avoid TMS or consult a specialist first:
People who have significant anxiety about the procedure or extreme sensitivity to touch or sound should also discuss these concerns with a provider before proceeding.
A full course of TMS therapy typically involves 5 sessions per week for 4 to 6 weeks. Each treatment session lasts around 20–40 minutes. While improvement may be noticed within the first couple of weeks, many patients feel the most benefit after completing the full series.
Some individuals may require maintenance sessions or additional rounds, especially if symptoms return. The commitment to frequent appointments may be a challenge for some, but providers can often help arrange flexible scheduling.
TMS is not the first-line treatment for most people. It is generally recommended when other options haven’t worked. Compared to antidepressants, TMS has fewer systemic side effects, no weight gain, and no impact on digestion or sexual function.
Unlike electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), TMS does not require anesthesia, and it does not cause memory loss. Still, patients should weigh the side effects of TMS and the tms treatment risks against the benefits and practical needs (such as time and cost).
If you are exploring options for major depression, ask your provider whether TMS or another treatment option may be better based on your specific symptoms and health history.
So, is TMS therapy safe? For the majority of patients, yes. TMS is FDA approved, well-tolerated, and supported by years of research. While mild side effects like scalp discomfort, headaches, and facial twitching are common, serious complications are extremely rare.
Knowing the risks of TMS and who may be more vulnerable to them is key to safe and successful treatment. Most concerns can be managed through proper screening and care by a trained provider.
Before beginning TMS therapy, make sure to ask your provider:
Asking these questions can help you feel more confident and better prepared for your TMS journey.
TMS is an exciting and effective approach for people living with treatment-resistant depression and other mental health conditions. But like all treatments, it comes with both benefits and risks. Understanding the TMS therapy side effects, especially for your unique health situation, can help you make the best decision for your care.
Whether you’re just starting to explore your options or preparing for your first TMS session, be sure to ask questions, stay informed, and work closely with your care team.
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