I found this review of Neuronetics' NueroStar TMS Therapy system which I thought was worthy of passing on. Sean Fallow of Gizmodo.com writes:Last year, Neuronetics' NeuroStar TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) Therapy system became the first device of its kind to be cleared by the FDA for treating depression. Although, the similarity to a dentist chair was probably not a great idea.
Nonetheless, trials on 164 patients with unipolar, non-psychotic major depressive disorder using the device proved that treatment with short magnetic field pulses to the left prefrontal cortex can be a viable alternative to medication. After 30 40-minute daily sessions, half of the patients in the trial experienced significant improvement, while a third reported complete resolution. Plus, the only statistically significant side effect was mild discomfort in the treatment area. Currently, patients can receive NeuroStar treatments in a psychiatrist's office while remaining completely awake and alert.
Given all of the uncertainty and danger surrounding many psychiatric drugs, NeuroStar seems like it's worth a shot for people suffering from serious bouts of depression. It could also be a sign of things to come. Perhaps technology like this will one day be implanted directly into our brains--making us feel awesome all the time.
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As someone who has suffered from several episodes of major depressive disorder, I am encouraged to hear about alternative treatments that may come into the mainstream at some point. I have tried many, many drugs, lots of therapy, and ECT and am plodding along. It seems like we're overdue for a breakthrough in a different direction.
The caveat - minimum treatment is $400 per 30 minute session, so a full therapy will START at $12,000.... and no insurance covers it.
I'm half way through my 30 session treatment at this point. I have started to show some improvement in my overall mood, motivation, and energy. I'm still wondering if it is the actual treatment or some sort of placebo effect. It is expensive, but I'm being told that Neurostar is having success in getting treatment approved by insurance.
Anyone else out there a patient with actual results???
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