There are three major types of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapies including traditional, accelerated, and express. All three types are available at the TMS Institute of Arizona. “Regular” TMS is a non-invasive means of brain stimulation where a magnetic field induces an electric current at certain parts of the brain. It is painless and fast, requiring multiple initial sessions but providing up to months of relief for a wide variety of conditions including major depressive disorder (MDD), depression, anxiety, eating disorders, and much more. This type of treatment option usually needs about nine weeks—which is not feasible for those who do not live in the area. That is where the accelerated and express treatments can be beneficial.
Accelerated TMS is exactly what it sounds like. It’s faster and, for many people, more accessible than standard TMS. Under this program, patients receive more than one treatment per day, shortening the length of treatment course drastically. The exact number of sessions per day will depend on various factors and will be determined by your provider. In some cases, up to ten sessions per day are recommended for five days. You’ll get faster relief from your symptoms with this approach, and many studies show that the results of accelerated TMS are comparable to standard TMS.
Different Types of Accelerated TMS
There are different protocols for accelerated TMS, such as intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS). However, one of the most commonly used is the Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy technique, or SAINT. It’s an experimental option for those struggling with treatment-resistant depression. More pulses are delivered in an even shorter period with this protocol. All protocols for accelerated TMS have shown positive results in studies and trials over the years.
Overall, accelerated TMS tends to offer the same benefits and same potential side effects as standard TMS. The most common side effects include temporary, mild headaches that are most likely to occur at the onset of the treatment. Of course, the biggest benefit of accelerated TMS is the ability to compound treatments, which is a must for those with busy schedules or who do not live near their TMS center. However, do bear in mind that standard TMS is covered by many insurance policies while accelerated and express TMS is not. This can be a factor in choosing which method is right for you.
Express TMS
Express TMS is very similar to accelerated TMS, but has a different protocol. Many patients report an improvement in their mood after just 10 days of treatment. On average, the treatment for express TMS is 15 – 20 minutes per session. Daily sessions five days per week for two weeks is the norm for the express TMS option. Studies have shown than over 90 percent of patients with anxiety and depression respond positively to this protocol.
TMS therapy has been FDA approved since 2013, and is increasingly being used as a non-invasive, non-medication form of therapy for a myriad of disorders and conditions. Those who have not responded well to other forms of therapy and/or want to wean off or avoid medications are drawn to TMS because of its effectiveness and long-lasting results.
What to Expect with TMS
No matter what kind of TMS treatment you undertake, you may find that the sensations during your treatment are unusual, but they are typically not described as painful. Instead, they feel like bursts or pulses. The strength of the treatment usually starts conservatively to allow patients time to get used to it. Results can last for several months, and it’s always possible to undergo additional TMS treatment sessions in the future. This therapy works by “re-wiring” certain parts of the brain that can cause disorders.
For those struggling with depression, with or without suicidal ideation, you may also be interested in Spravato, which is also offered in our clinic. It is a nasal spray that is meant to be taken in conjunction with current prescribed medications. You can also undergo TMS as a complementary treatment. We are committed to helping you find the right alternative therapies for you that are safe and effective. Schedule a consultation with one of our experts today. Contact the TMS Institute of Arizona now by calling the office or, for the quickest reply, complete the online contact form now.
