TMS Therapy Side Effects | Facts Vs Myths [2024]

Some localized scalp discomfort such as a prickling sensation or tenderness can be an immediate effect of the focused repetitive magnetic pulses. This ceases with completion of the treatment session, and the majority of patients become desensitized to the ‘tapping’ pulses after a few sessions of TMS.

TMS magnetic waves are targeted at specific areas on the surface of the brain, but can also stimulate neighboring nerves and muscles, which may result in involuntary and localized facial twitching. Twitching only occurs during TMS sessions and stops when the treatment stops. It is not painful.

Headaches have been reported during TMS treatment and are not unexpected or abnormal. A mild, over-the-counter analgesic before or after sessions often resolves any discomfort until desensitization to treatments occurs. Persistent headaches during a course of TMS are rare. Your technician may also adjust the strength of the magnetic waves to minimize the chance of headache should these occur. Patients stopping TMS treatment due to repeated and severe headaches is very rare. As with all medical interventions, side effects range from more common and tolerable, to exceptional and rare, as listed below.

Seizures during a course of TMS can occur, but are extremely isolated - about 1 in 89,000 sessions¹ and studies confirm most occurred in patients with a prior history of seizures, or the safety parameters of the stimulation had exceeded safety guidelines². A previous history of seizures can preclude patients from TMS treatment, therefore all patients are screened by their TMS provider before being accepted for therapy. Safeguarding checks are also made during all sessions alerting the practitioner to indications of imminent seizure. In these circumstances, the session will be immediately stopped, supportive care is provided, and emergency services are contacted. 

Mania can be triggered in Bipolar or undiagnosed Bipolar as a side effect of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. Protocols to safeguard patients against developing Mania are present in the same way as monitoring for potential seizures. Manic switches are extremely rare.³

Hearing damage can occur with exposure to excessive and repetitive noise, e.g. using headphones at high volume repeatedly or attending a loud concert. All patients are recommended to wear earplugs during TMS treatment to avoid any risk of injury. 

Contraindications or pre-existing health conditions can change the nature and occurrence of side effects making it vital to fully disclose your medical history to your practitioner in your initial consultation. Contraindications would include a history of seizures, previous significant brain damage, and any foreign or medical devices above the neck that can conduct a magnetic field, such as cochlear implants.

FACT – No adverse effects on cognition, including memory impairment, have been identified to date in studies using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. 

TMS trials to date reflect no changes or long-term adverse effects to cognitive health. Many studies have in fact shown that slight improvements in cognition can be seen with the use of TMS.⁴⁵

FACT – No Brain Damage has ever been identified from Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. 

Numerous studies have failed to find any detriment or damage to the brain by TMS treatment following the use of evidence based protocols.⁶ TMS is increasingly being researched as a tool to remedy or improve brain activity after brain damage, dementia, and strokes.

MYTH – TMS is Expensive and Health Insurance Companies Refuse to Cover Treatment

FACT – TMS treatment has been cleared by the FDA as a therapy for Treatment Resistant Major Depression and is covered by most health insurance companies. Out of pocket cost for TMS depends on an individual’s specific insurance coverage and is determined prior to treatment.

Please visit our page on insurance coverage and payment options here

Every effort is made to accommodate TMS treatment cost and to assist patients in getting the treatment they need. Please do not hesitate to make an appointment here

ECT requires a hospital surgical setting with the use of anesthesia, muscle relaxants, and a recovery period before discharge. 

ECT is used for patients experiencing active suicidality, catatonia, or psychosis, and for individuals who have not responded to any other treatments.

Side effects of ECT can include memory loss and other cognitive problems, most commonly around the treatments.

TMS uses magnetic waves, which have been created by running electricity through specific wiring. This is similar to an MRI machine, but much more focused. 

No electrical discharge is introduced into the body during TMS. Electricity only plays a role in creating TMS electromagnetic waves. The waves (or pulses), indirectly stimulate neuronal firing on the surface of the brain. 

TMS requires NO surgical setting or use of anesthesia. 

Side effects are typically minimal and temporary with TMS and do not result in cognitive deficits.

TMS is a medication-free treatment.

TMS sessions are quick and there is no impact on daily activities. Patients may drive to and from appointments and resume daily activities immediately following.