Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that has been employed for more than two decades and has proven effective in the management of various mental disorders, including depression, generalized anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, panic attacks and other disorders.

Its mechanism of action lies in the direct stimulation of specific areas of the cerebral cortex, such as the prefrontal cortex and other regions associated with mood regulation. This process is achieved through the use of a stimulation coil that generates a powerful magnetic field.

During a treatment session, this magnetic field is directed towards the brain when the coil is placed on the patient's head. The magnetic energy easily passes through the skin and skull, without causing significant discomfort or requiring sedation. In essence, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation modulates neuronal activity and can alter the metabolism of key neurotransmitters, such as GABA and serotonin, in specific brain regions.

This method stands out for being safe, effective and simple to apply, with minimal side effects. It is especially recommended for people who have not responded adequately to other treatments, those intolerant to medications, or as a complement to pharmacological therapy in cases of resistant disorders.

Is it really that effective?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has been shown to be effective, especially when a complete evaluation of patients is carried out. In addition, it has been observed that its efficacy is enhanced when combined with psychotherapy, lifestyle changes, and, in some cases, medication.

In our experience, we have observed that most of our patients achieve optimal results after approximately 10 sessions of treatment with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

To maximize the therapeutic benefits, we recommend that treatment sessions be conducted 2 to 3 times per week. In addition, it is important to note that many individuals experience noticeable improvements in their condition after as few as 4 to 6 sessions.

People undergoing TMS often describe the sensations of the magnetic pulses as uncomfortable but not painful. Over the course of sessions, most patients tend to adapt to this sensation.

In a few cases there may be a slight transient pain in the area of the skull where it was stimulated, which can be treated with any analgesic.

The positive effects of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) usually last 9 to 12 months for most patients. However, many opt to return for follow-up sessions, which may be monthly or every 2 to 3 months, in order to maintain the benefits obtained or prevent a relapse.

Research studies support this finding, showing that after six months from the start of treatment, depressive symptoms tend to decrease significantly compared to their initial state. This underscores the long-term durability and efficacy of TMS in the management of depressive symptoms.

Compared to electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers the advantage of not requiring hospitalization and has less severe side effects.

In ECT, electrical currents are administered throughout the brain, leading to an increased risk of memory loss. In contrast, TMS focuses on specific areas of the brain, which minimizes side effects and reduces the risk of serious complications.

Neurofeedback has been extensively studied in the treatment of ADHD, sleep disorders and epilepsy, with promising results. However, controlled research on the effects of neurofeedback on depression is limited.

For this reason, neurofeedback cannot currently be considered an evidence-based approach to treating depression. In contrast, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) has been the subject of numerous studies in the treatment of depression, which supports its efficacy and increases the likelihood of treatment success.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS) is recommended for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults who have not experienced satisfactory improvement with previous antidepressant treatments in the current episode.

Your physician will evaluate several factors, including medication dosing records and depression assessments, to determine if you are a suitable candidate for Neurowave TMS Therapy.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS) may be an option for people diagnosed with depression or anxiety. However, there are certain conditions that may make TMS inadvisable. This includes individuals who have pacemakers or metal implants in the skull, as well as those whose epilepsy is not controlled.

TMS therapy can be a valuable option for patients diagnosed with a variety of conditions such as:

- Depression
- Dysthymia
- Anxiety Disorder
- OCD
- Post-traumatic Stress
- Other Disorders

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) treatment can be prescribed by various medical professionals or therapists.

Prior to beginning treatment, a comprehensive evaluation by a Neurowave psychiatrist will be conducted.

No special preparation is required prior to treatment.

For treatment, patients must be over 18 years of age. In the case of adolescents, it is necessary that they are referred by a Child and Adolescent Psychiatrist, and that the parents or guardians sign the informed consent.

TMS treatment is performed by a psychiatrist or mental health professional with specialized training in this technique.

In the case of Neurowave, Dr. José Ramón Grajales is the specialist in charge of administering this treatment. Dr. Grajales is a Surgeon graduated from the University of Guanajuato, with a specialty in Psychiatry from the UNAM, with additional training in a Fellowship in Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation at Duke University.

Their experience and training guarantee high quality treatment and safety for our patients.

During the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), the magnetic coil is placed on the left frontal side of the head, specifically over the region of the brain known as the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex.

You may hear a clicking sound and experience a tapping sensation in your head, which are the magnetic pulses delivered. It is common for many patients to take advantage of the time during treatment to watch television or read.

Neurowave Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy typically lasts 29 to 33 minutes per session. One treatment session is scheduled per day, repeated two to three times per week, for a period of 4 to 6 weeks.

If you are contemplating the possibility of gradually reducing the use of antidepressant medication, TMS is a recommended option for this process in order to avoid relapse.

It is not necessary to completely discontinue medication prior to starting TMS treatment, and you can still continue taking antidepressant medications throughout the treatment period. However, any adjustments in your medication should be made under the supervision and guidance of your treating physician or psychiatrist.

It is important to discuss long-term treatment planning with your physician, including considering options for maintenance treatment. Your physician is trained to offer personalized guidance and design an ongoing treatment plan that fits your individual needs.

It is not necessary, unless accompaniment is needed for some other reason. The patient returns in the same condition in which he/she was admitted.

The treatment generally does not cause the side effects commonly associated with antidepressants. Although some patients may experience mild discomfort or headache, they should be able to resume their daily activities immediately after treatment.

It is important to remember that Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy (TMS) is a medical procedure, so any side effects you experience during or after treatment should be reported to your physician.

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy in Mexico is performed at Neurowave's office located in Mexico City (CDMX).

Office address:
Montes Urales 749 Interior 5
Col. Lomas de Chapultepec
C.P. 11000 Mexico City