How Does NeuroStar TMS Therapy® Work?

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) uses a targeted pulsed magnetic field, similar to what is used in an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) machine. While the patient is awake and alert, NeuroStar TMS Therapy stimulates areas of the brain that are underactive in depression.²

NeuroStar TMS Therapy is an in-office treatment that takes 19 to 37 minutes and is performed while the patient sits in a chair. Treatment consists of sessions administered five days a week, for up to four to six weeks.

Simple steps for NeuroStar TMS Therapy:

• Step One: The patient reclines comfortably in the treatment chair, awake and alert


Step Two: A small curved device containing the magnetic coil rests lightly on the patient’s head



Step Three: The device delivers focused magnetic stimulation directly to the target areas of the brain



Step Four: The patient can immediately resume normal activities



During treatment, the patient hears a clicking sound and feels a tapping sensation on the head. The most common side effect is generally mild-to-moderate pain or discomfort at or near the treatment area during the session. When this occurs it is temporary, and typically occurs only during the first week of treatment.

There are no effects on alertness or understanding; patients being treated with NeuroStar TMS Therapy can drive themselves to and from their treatment sessions.