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.
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