TMS Therapy
TMS vs Medication
What differs between TMS and antidepressant medication. No recommendation either way.
Mechanism
Medication is systemic: it is absorbed into the bloodstream and alters neurotransmitter signalling throughout the body.
TMS is local: magnetic pulses stimulate a targeted region of the brain. It is not metabolised by the body.
Practical differences
- Medication: taken at home, daily
- TMS: delivered in clinic, as scheduled sessions
- Medication: needs a daily routine and periodic dose review
- TMS: needs consistent attendance for the length of the course
Side-effect profiles
Both have documented side effects, and they differ in kind. Medication side effects are often systemic; TMS side effects are usually local to the scalp and lessen over the course.
Your clinician will review the risks relevant to you before recommending a path.
Using them together
These options are not mutually exclusive. Some patients continue medication during a TMS course; others do not. That decision belongs to you and your prescriber.
Questions
Frequently asked
Keep exploring
Related reading and services
Speak to our team about TMS therapy
TMS suitability is determined by clinical assessment. A consultation is the way to find out whether it applies to your situation.