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The NeuroStar TMS Device: Conducting the FDA Approved Protocol for Treatment of Depression
Published on: November 12, 2010
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Rectangular Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Monophasic vs Biphasic Stimulation for Major Depressive Disorder: A
Michelle S Goodman1, Daniel M Blumberger2, Mehran Talebinejad3
1Temerty Centre for Therapeutic Brain Intervention, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Summary
Both biphasic and monophasic rectangular repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) are safe and effective for treating depression. This pilot study found no significant differences in outcomes between the two rTMS pulse shapes for treatment-resistant depression (TRD).
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an FDA-approved noninvasive treatment for treatment-resistant depression (TRD).
- Technological limitations have hindered research into optimizing rTMS pulse shapes.
- This study investigates novel biphasic and monophasic rectangular rTMS protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility and tolerability of biphasic and monophasic rectangular rTMS in patients with TRD.
- To evaluate the preliminary efficacy of these novel rTMS pulse shapes for TRD.
- To compare the outcomes of biphasic versus monophasic rectangular rTMS.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study involving 20 adult participants diagnosed with TRD.
- Randomized administration of biphasic and monophasic rectangular rTMS over six weeks (30 sessions, 3000 pulses/session).
- Neuropsychological testing conducted pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at 1, 4, and 12 weeks follow-up.
Main Results:
- 18 participants completed the study; two withdrew.
- Both biphasic and monophasic rectangular rTMS significantly reduced depressive symptoms in TRD patients.
- No significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding depressive score changes, response rates, or remission rates.
Conclusions:
- Biphasic and monophasic rectangular rTMS are safe and well-tolerated treatments for TRD.
- Further large-scale, double-blind, sham-controlled trials are warranted to confirm these findings.
- The study provides preliminary evidence for the efficacy of novel rTMS pulse shapes.
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