Magstim TMS Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder
Magstim TMS systems use magnetic pulses to stimulate targeted areas of the brain involved in mood regulation. TMS is a non-invasive treatment option for adults with MDD who have not achieved satisfactory improvement with prior antidepressant medication.
FDA-cleared indications vary by Magstim system and patient population.
*From a multisite naturalistic study of TMS in clinical practice, not a Magstim-specific study. Study outcomes vary by patient population, protocol, treatment setting, and definition of response or remission. These figures are not a guarantee of individual results.
TMS Neuromodulation Platform
- Adult MDD indication (U.S.)
- Adjunctive adult OCD indication
- Non-invasive outpatient sessions
- Navigation options
What Clinical Research Reports
Clinical studies of rTMS have reported improvements in depressive symptoms, response, and remission in some patients. Results vary across studies and depend on patient characteristics, treatment protocols, and clinical setting.
Reported in a large naturalistic study of 307 patients receiving rTMS for depression.
Reported in the same naturalistic study.
Many conventional depression protocols are delivered five days per week for approximately four to six weeks.
Source: Multisite naturalistic observational study of acute TMS treatment outcomes in clinical practice (Carpenter et al., Depression and Anxiety, 2012; 307 outpatients, clinician-rated outcomes). These figures are not Magstim-specific outcomes or a guarantee of individual results.
Medical information: This page provides general educational information and is not medical advice. TMS suitability, treatment protocol, risks, and expected outcomes should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional.
What Is Magstim TMS Therapy?
Magstim TMS systems deliver repetitive magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain. The magnetic field passes through the scalp without surgery or implants and induces electrical activity in the underlying brain tissue.
TMS is generally delivered during outpatient sessions, with the specific treatment protocol determined by the treating clinician and the applicable device indication.
FDA-cleared indications vary by system. Certain Magstim Horizon® TMS systems are FDA-cleared for specific indications related to major depressive disorder. FDA-cleared indications vary by system and patient population.
Magstim U.S. FDA-cleared indicationsHow TMS Works
For depression, commonly used protocols target prefrontal areas of the brain involved in mood regulation, although the specific target and stimulation protocol can vary.
Targeted Stimulation
A treatment coil is positioned over a targeted area of the scalp. Magnetic pulses induce electrical activity in the underlying brain tissue.
Non-Invasive Treatment
TMS does not require surgery or implanted hardware. Sessions are typically performed while the patient is awake and seated.
Clinical Protocol
Treatment parameters, stimulation location, frequency, and course length are selected by the treating clinician based on the patient and the applicable treatment protocol.
Magstim TMS in Clinical Practice
Learn more about how TMS is delivered and what a treatment session may look like.
Video courtesy of Magstim.
Potential Benefits and Considerations of TMS
Non-Invasive
TMS uses magnetic stimulation rather than surgery or implanted devices.
Targeted Stimulation
Treatment is directed toward specific brain regions using a treatment coil positioned on the scalp.
Outpatient Treatment
TMS is generally delivered during outpatient sessions, allowing patients to return home after treatment.
Side Effects
Common effects can include scalp discomfort or headache during or after treatment. A treating clinician should discuss potential risks and contraindications.
Who May Be Considering TMS?
TMS may be discussed as a treatment option for people with major depressive disorder when prior treatment has not provided satisfactory improvement. Eligibility depends on the individual’s clinical history, diagnosis, treatment history, and the applicable device indication.
Common Considerations
Treatment History
A clinician may review previous antidepressant treatments, their duration, dosage, response, and side effects.
Medical Considerations
A clinician will review relevant medical history, medications, implanted devices, and other factors that may affect TMS eligibility.
Outpatient Treatment
TMS is generally delivered in an outpatient setting, but the treatment schedule and protocol vary by clinic and patient.
Questions to Discuss With a TMS Provider
These questions can help you prepare for a conversation with a qualified clinician. They are not a diagnostic or eligibility test.
- Is TMS appropriate for my diagnosis and treatment history?
- Which Magstim system and treatment protocol does the clinic use?
- How many sessions are typically recommended?
- What side effects and safety considerations should I know about?
- What costs or insurance requirements should I expect?
Find Magstim TMS Clinics Near You
Explore MDDCare’s directory of clinics that may offer Magstim TMS for depression. Availability, treatment protocols, and device models vary by clinic.
Magstim TMS Availability
Browse clinics that list Magstim TMS among their treatment options.
Treatment Modalities
See other TMS systems and services a clinic lists.
Location
Browse clinics by city, state, or nearby location where available.
Insurance & Coverage
Review listed insurance information and confirm current details with the clinic.
Directory note: Clinic listings, device models, treatment availability, and insurance information may change. Confirm current details directly with the clinic.
Insurance Coverage for TMS
Coverage for TMS varies by insurer, plan, diagnosis, treatment history, age, and clinical criteria. Some plans may require prior authorization or documentation of previous treatment attempts.
What Can Affect Coverage?
- Insurer and plan
- Diagnosis and age
- Treatment history
- Clinical criteria
- Prior authorization requirements
Before You Schedule
Confirm current coverage requirements directly with the insurance plan and the clinic. Coverage and eligibility requirements vary by plan and may change.
Compare insurance information listed by clinicsMagstim TMS Frequently Asked Questions
What is Magstim TMS?
Magstim TMS systems use magnetic pulses to stimulate targeted areas of the brain. TMS is a non-invasive treatment that does not require surgery or implanted hardware.
Is Magstim TMS FDA-cleared for depression?
Certain Magstim Horizon® systems are FDA-cleared for the treatment of major depressive disorder in specified patient populations. The exact indication depends on the device and patient population, so visitors should confirm the applicable indication with a qualified clinician.
Who may be considered for TMS?
TMS may be considered for some people with major depressive disorder who have not achieved satisfactory improvement with prior antidepressant medication. A qualified clinician determines whether TMS is appropriate based on the individual’s clinical history and the applicable device indication.
How long does a TMS treatment course take?
Treatment schedules vary by protocol and clinic. A course may involve multiple sessions over several weeks. The treating clinic determines the appropriate schedule for each patient.
What are common side effects of TMS?
Common effects may include scalp discomfort or headache during or after treatment. The treating clinician should review potential risks, contraindications, and other safety considerations before treatment.
Does insurance cover Magstim TMS?
Insurance coverage varies by plan and individual circumstances. Some plans may require prior authorization or documentation of previous treatments. Patients should confirm current requirements with their insurance plan and the clinic.
Medical information disclaimer: This page provides general educational information about Magstim TMS and is not medical advice. TMS may not be appropriate for everyone and has potential risks and contraindications. A qualified healthcare professional determines whether TMS is appropriate for an individual patient. MDDCare does not provide TMS treatment or medical care; clinic information should be confirmed directly with the listed clinic.
Sources: Magstim Quality & Regulatory (U.S. FDA-cleared indications)FDA 510(k) K232235 (Horizon® 3.0)FDA 510(k) K243869 (Horizon® 3.0)Carpenter et al., 2012 (naturalistic rTMS outcomes)