Newswise — Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is well established for treating depression and other psychiatric disorders. Though effective, ECT produces short-term confusion and occasionally some memory loss, and patients require general anesthesia and muscle relaxants. Now a growing body of research suggests that new techniques such as transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may offer less disruptive ways to use electromagnetic energy against depression, schizophrenia, and other psychiatric disorders, reports the August issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter.
TMS works this way: An electrical generator produces a series of strong magnetic fields in a wire coil, which is mounted on a paddle and positioned on or near a patient's forehead or scalp. The fluctuating magnetic force produces an electrical current that influences neurons in the area directly under the coil. Stimulation by TMS is much milder and more localized than ECT. The magnetic field can be applied to fully conscious patients, who feel no pain and can read or talk during the treatment and drive home afterward. Memory is not affected.
The Harvard Mental Health Letter reports that: "¢ About 40% of patients with medication-resistant depression show some improvement after TMS. New research also suggests that TMS may shorten the time it takes drugs to begin working. "¢ Findings are mixed on the effects of TMS on schizophrenia and post-traumatic stress disorder. "¢ In a controlled study, TMS was no more effective than sham treatment for patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder. "¢ More than 30 studies are now testing the potential of TMS for treating a variety of conditions including stroke, Parkinson's disease, and cerebral palsy.
Also in this issue:"¢ Conversion disorder "¢ Drug advertising's effect on prescribing practices"¢ A doctor answers: What are the dangers of methamphetamine?
The Harvard Mental Health Letter is available from Harvard Health Publications, the publishing division of Harvard Medical School, for $59 per year. Subscribe at http://www.health.harvard.edu/mental or by calling 1-877-649-9457 (toll free).
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