Depression is a common mental illness affecting millions of people worldwide. Several treatment options are available to manage depression, including medication and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). Medication has been the standard treatment option for many years, but in recent years, many people have turned to TMS as an alternative therapy. In this blog, we will compare TMS vs. medication in treating depression and help you understand which one might be a better option for you or a loved one.
Understanding Antidepressants
Medication is the most commonly used treatment option for depression. Antidepressants work by balancing neurotransmitters in the brain that are responsible for mood regulation. While antidepressants have been effective in treating depression, they come with several side effects. Common side effects of antidepressants include nausea, headaches, dizziness, and sexual dysfunction. In some cases, antidepressants can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Additionally, not all people respond well to antidepressants, and it may take several weeks for the medication to take effect.
Understanding TMS
TMS is a newer treatment option for depression that has gained popularity in recent years. TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate nerve cells in the brain that are responsible for mood regulation. TMS has been shown to be an effective treatment option for depression in many people. Additionally, TMS does not have the same side effects as antidepressants, which makes it an attractive treatment option for people who cannot tolerate medication. TMS also works faster than medication, and many people notice an improvement in their symptoms within a few weeks.
Medication Advantages
One advantage of medication over TMS is that antidepressants are covered by insurance, while TMS is not always covered. The cost of TMS can be a significant barrier to access for many people, which makes medication a more accessible treatment option for depression. Additionally, medication is more widely available than TMS, which can make it easier for people living in rural areas to access treatment.
While medication and TMS are both effective treatment options for depression, it’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with depression is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. It’s essential to work with a qualified mental health professional to determine the best treatment option for you or a loved one. Additionally, medication and TMS can be used together to manage depression. This is called combination therapy and can be an effective option for people who do not respond well to medication or TMS alone.
Seeking Help
Depression is a complex mental illness that can be difficult to manage. While medication has been the standard treatment option for many years, TMS has gained popularity as an alternative therapy. Both medication and TMS are effective treatment options for depression, but they come with different advantages and disadvantages. If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, it’s essential to work with a qualified mental health professional to determine the best treatment option. Remember, everyone’s experience with depression is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
For many people around the world, depression becomes a part of their mental health journey.
While depression is the leading mental illness across the globe, treatment resistant depression affects around 30% of those diagnosed.
Being constantly stuck in a dark hole of depression can feel like there’s no way out. It’s hard to keep up hope that things will get better and trying something new for relief may be overwhelming. The discouragement felt when reaching out for help only to have it fail can be especially heartbreaking.
However, we want to offer some encouragement– if you have tried to relieve yourself from symptoms of depression and so far have been unsuccessful, we want to invite you to continue reading for more information and resources.
How Do You Know If You Have Treatment Resistant Depression?
Treatment resistant depression is a serious condition that can be difficult to identify because symptoms are often similar to those of regular depression.
Therefore, in order to know definitively if you or someone you care about has treatment resistant depression, it is important to know the criteria that one must meet before being formally diagnosed with this disorder.
Generally, it is determined that an individual has treatment resistant depression when they have had two different antidepressant medications take effect within 8-12 weeks and are still exhibiting symptoms of moderate to severe depressive episodes.
For treatment resistant bipolar disorder, there is no true standard criteria, however, many follow the same guidelines as treatment resistant depression.
Back view of businessman with black umbrella and black cloud above
Treatment Resistant Depression Symptoms:
Treatment resistant depression criteria can be difficult to identify as symptoms vary from person to person.
Common treatment resistant depression symptoms include:
A persistent low mood
Lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
Fatigue or low energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulty concentrating on tasks
Changes in sleep or appetite.
In some cases, people may also experience physical discomfort due to depression or thoughts of harming oneself.
If you are noticing any of these symptoms that do not improve even after trying different treatments, you may have treatment resistant depression and should discuss this with your healthcare provider.
How To Live With Treatment Resistant Depression:
Living with treatment resistant depression can be incredibly debilitating, but it’s important to keep exploring possibilities and maintaining hope.
One helpful step may be to talk to an array of different doctors or specialists to discover their unique perspectives on treatment-resistant depression and develop a plan tailored for you.
By revealing new options for relief, those who are struggling with depression can continue striving towards a more positive outlook on life.
Stimulants for Treatment Resistant Depression:
Antidepressants are typically the first line of defense in treatment, however, stimulants are increasingly becoming an option for those who don’t show a positive response to antidepressants.
Stimulants for treatment resistant depression appear to be providing effective relief for this resistant form of depression, and many people with this condition are unaware that this alternative is available to them.
With the advancement of new technology and resources, patients have more options than ever before when it comes to managing their mental health conditions. Stimulants are proving to be a vital part of the equation.
Researchers are continuing to study how effective these compounds can be in treating treatment-resistant cases of depression and helping individuals regain control over their lives.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy:
Transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy (or TMS Therapy) is slowly becoming renowned as one of the most effective emerging treatments for those suffering from treatment resistant depression.
This form of treatment is non-invasive, and with the help of an electromagnetic coil, focuses magnetic pulses towards certain parts of the outer layer of the brain.
This stimulation is believed to be a game changer for those who haven’t seen relief from traditional treatments such as psychiatric drugs or psychotherapy.
It has been helping sufferers all around the world find respite from their symptoms by stimulating neuron growth, balancing chemical levels in the brain and strengthening neural pathways that are affected in people struggling with depression.
With research backing up that TMS Therapy could be a literal life saver, it only continues to grow as one of the best hopes for those living with this mental illness.
Lifestyle Changes:
With treatment resistant depression on the rise, it is important to consider the role that lifestyle changes could play in giving individuals some relief. While many people ask their doctors for a magic cure, they often don’t take into account how their daily habits may be influencing their moods.
Recent research suggests that our gut health, amount of exposure to sunlight and eating habits can all be linked to depression, and making small changes in each of these areas can create a cumulative effect which could provide significant relief to those suffering from treatment-resistant depression.
It is important to note that these lifestyle changes alone won’t necessarily cure the symptoms of this condition – but they can certainly help by providing enough relief for traditional therapies to have greater effect.
Don’t Let Treatment Resistant Depression Keep You Stuck:
Treatment resistant depression can be a frustrating battle, however there is cause for hope.
In recent years medical science has advanced rapidly and many new treatments are being developed. Stimulants for depression and transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) are two examples of this; both of which were boundary pushing treatments just a few years back.
Combining these treatments with lifestyle improvements such as diet, exercise, and sleep can result in a greatly improved condition.
Don’t give up hope – doctors and therapists specializing in treatment resistant depression are dedicated to finding solutions for you, so take the steps to seek help today.
Contact us at GeminiTMS.com for further assistance managing your treatment resistant depression.
While it’s a big step for many people, making the decision to seek treatment for your depression is a daunting task in and of itself. You may find yourself overwhelmed sifting through various web pages with endless information.
If you’re living with depression, you might be wondering if medication is the right treatment option for you. After all, antidepressants are commonly prescribed to help people manage their depression.
However, there is another potential treatment option that you might not be aware of: transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS.
TMS is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain and has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression.
So, which is right for you? Let’s take a closer look at both options.
Drawing of human brain on chalkboard with inscription transcranial magnetic stimulation.
TMS vs. Antidepressants: The Basics
In order to understand which option may be most effective for you, let’s start by covering the basics.
Antidepressants
Antidepressants are medications that are used to treat depression. They work by correcting imbalances in neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit messages in the brain.
Common types of antidepressants include SSRIs, SNRIs, and tricyclic antidepressants. Some people experience relief from their symptoms within a few weeks of starting antidepressant medication, while others may need to try a few different medications before they find one that works for them.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression, and it does not have the same side effects as antidepressants.
TMS is typically done 5 days per week for 4-6 weeks.
TMS vs. Antidepressants: The Side Effects
Side effects can make or break a treatment option for some people.
Let’s explore a few of the most common symptoms that occur with each:
Antidepressants:
Antidepressants are a popular and effective option for many people, but it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects before starting any new medication.
The most common side effect of antidepressants is nausea, which can be accompanied by vomiting and/or diarrhea.
Other gastrointestinal side effects include:
Loss of appetite
Weight loss or gain
Dry mouth
Headaches
Dizziness
Fatigue
Some people may experience sexual side effects such as decreased libido or erectile dysfunction.
Additionally, some antidepressants can cause mood swings and make anxiety worse. If you experience any of these side effects, it’s important to talk to your doctor so that they can adjust your dosage or switch you to a different medication.
How common are the side effects of antidepressants? According to a report found in the journal of Psychiatry, 40% of people that take antidepressants experience negative side effects.
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation:
If you’ve been considering TMS treatment for your depression, you’re likely wondering about the potential side effects. While any medical treatment comes with some risk, the side effects associated with TMS are relatively mild and short-lived.
The most common side effect of TMS is headache, which affects about 1 in 5 people who receive this treatment. Headaches are usually mild and go away on their own within a few hours.
Other potential side effects of TMS include:
• Scalp discomfort at the site of treatment
• Lightheadedness or dizziness
• Twitching or spasms in facial muscles
• Changes in taste
• Tingling or sensations in the scalp
How common are the side effects of TMS treatment? These side effects are typically rare and disappear soon after treatment is completed.
TMS vs. Antidepressants: The Cost
Another factor to consider when debating between antidepressants and transcranial magnetic stimulation is the cost.
The cost of antidepressants can vary depending on the type of antidepressant, your insurance coverage, and where you purchase your medication. Generally speaking, generic antidepressants are less expensive than brand-name antidepressants.
Now, how much does TMS cost?
TMS treatment varies depending on where you live, and how much your insurance is willing to cover. Each treatment typically ranges from around $400-$500. If you have insurance, your insurer may cover some or all of the cost of TMS treatment.
However, many insurers still consider TMS to be an experimental treatment, so coverage is not guaranteed.
It’s important to note, while TMS treatment costs are higher than antidepressants, magnetic stimulation gets to the root of depression rather than simply covering up symptoms. This means it’s a much better investment in the long run.
How Do I Find TMS Treatment Centers Near Me?
If you’re interested in finding a TMS treatment center near you, there are a few things you can do.
First, check with your insurance provider. They may have a list of TMS providers that they cover. If not, you can also search online for “TMS depression treatment near me.”
This should give you a list of providers in your area. Once you have a list of potential providers, call them and ask about their experience with TMS and what their success rates are. You should also ask about the cost of treatments and whether or not your insurance will cover them.
When you’re looking for a TMS provider, it’s important to find one that has experience in treating depression and has a high success rate. You should also make sure that the provider is covered by your insurance so that you can get the treatment you need without having to pay out of pocket.
Let’s Recap:
If you’re living with depression, you might be wondering if medication is the right treatment option for you.
Antidepressants are commonly prescribed to help people manage their depression; however, they can cause side effects such as fatigue, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction.
Another potential treatment option is transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain and has been shown to be an effective treatment for depression with far fewer side effects than medications
If you live near Mount Airy, Maryland, consider Gemini TMS as your go-to treatment center for transcranial magnetic stimulation. Not only do we provide a free consultation, we can empower you in finding relief from non-responsive depression or chronic mood instability. Contact us today at 301-363-1063 or schedule your free consultation online today at https://www.geminitms.com/schedule-consultation/.
Antidepressants are a type of medication that has been shown to be highly effective at treating major depressive disorder and other mood disorders. Essentially antidepressants work by boosting the chemicals in your brain called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine) are known for affecting mood and emotions.
How Antidepressants Work
If you are struggling with depression then your doctor may put you on antidepressants as part of your treatment plan. Antidepressants are a type of medication that has been shown to be highly effective at treating major depressive disorder and other mood disorders. Essentially antidepressants work by boosting the chemicals in your brain called neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters (serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine) are known for affecting mood and emotions.
History of Antidepressants
Major depressive disorder is a very common mood disorder, as the National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 17.3 million adults in the US had at least one major depressive episode in 2017. The 1950s actually saw the introduction of the first pharmacological treatments for major depressive disorder: iproniazid and imipramine. In 1952, two chemists, Irving Selikoff and Edward Robitzek were developing a new treatment for tuberculosis and conducted clinical studies on a new drug, iproniazid, which is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor. They noted how patients experienced an improvement in mood, appetite, and sleep. Further studies on its antidepressant effects were conducted by other scientists in this time period. Then 1957 saw the first public report on imipramine by Roland Kuhn. Kuhn was originally testing its antipsychotic effects for patients with schizophrenia (it had no effect) and he realized that it instead worked as an antidepressant. So, the first clinically useful tricyclic antidepressant was founded.
The 1980s brought about the focus on the association between serotonin levels and depression. In response, a new class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) became established during this decade. Fluoxetine, an SSRI, revolutionized the market and therapy treatments for depression when it was approved by the FDA in 1987 as the brand name Prozac. Fluoxetine and all SSRIs had the advantage over tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), as they had fewer adverse effects, although TCAs have still been popular over history. Prozac skyrocketed in popularity and became widely prescribed across North America.
Types of Antidepressants
Many people may not realize but there are several types of antidepressants and they all function differently by affecting different neurotransmitters. Currently, there are five major classes of antidepressants, with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) being among the most commonly prescribed as the first line of treatment.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs): This class of antidepressants works by specifically inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin. This means that they block the reabsorption of serotonin into neurons and increase the levels of serotonin available in the brain. SSRIs can also be used to treat other conditions, such as OCD, anxiety, and eating disorders. SSRIs are also known for having fewer side effects than other types of antidepressants. Common SSRIs are:
Celexa (citalopram
Lexapro (escitalopram)
Luvox (fluvoxamine)
Paxil (paroxetine)
Prozac (fluoxetine)
Viibryd (vilazodone)
Zoloft (sertraline)
Serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs):The first FDA-approved SNRI came about in 1993 and works similarly to SSRIs. SNRIs inhibit the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine, instead of just serotonin like SSRIs do. Some SNRIs can also treat generalized anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and even chronic pain. Common SNRIs are:
Cymbalta (duloxetine)
Effexor (venlafaxine)
Fetzima (levomilnacipran)
Pristiq (desvenlafixine)
Savella (milnacipran)
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): One of the first antidepressants to be FDA approved and hit the market, tricyclic antidepressants get its name from the three rings in its chemical structure. They are similar to reuptake inhibitors, as they block the absorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, but they also block the absorption of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine. Before SSRIs came along these were the antidepressants that were used as the first line of treatment. TCAs are still prescribed often, but they can cause more severe side effects than SSRIs. Common TCAs are:
Anafranil (clomipramine)
Asendin (amoxapine)
Elavil (amitriptyline)
Norpramin (desipramine)
Pamelor (nortrptyline)
Sinequan (doxepin)
Surmontil (trimipramine)
Tofranil (imipramine)
Vivactil (protriptyline)
MonoamineOxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs):Another of the first antidepressants to become available to people in the mid-1900’s. MAOIs inhibit the action of a brain enzyme known as monoamine oxidase, which helps to break down neurotransmitters like serotonin. MAOIs are no longer commonly used and are generally saved when other antidepressants have not worked. This is due to their ability to interact negatively with other medications and the potential to cause food reactions. Common MAOIs are:
Emsam (selegiline)
Marplan (isocarboxazid)
Nardil (phenelzine)
Parnate (tranylcypromine)
Atypical Antidepressants: This classification gets its name because these antidepressants do not fit into any of the other major classifications, so they are considered “atypical.” Each medication in this category has a unique function and affects serotonin, norephedrine, and dopamine differently. Along with function, each antidepressant has varying side effects. Some of the medications that are classified as atypical are:
Oleptro (trazodone)
Brintellix (vortioxetine)
Remeron (mirtazapine)
Symbax
Wellbutrin (bupropion)
How Do I Know If Antidepressants Are Working?
Antidepressants can do wonders, but unfortunately, they are not an instant cure for depression. These medications can take some time to kick in and doctors usually expect them to start working in four to six weeks. After this time, if you still do not see any improvements in your mood then you may wish to contact your doctor. Be sure to take your antidepressant as instructed to maximize the chances of it working. It will most likely be a subtle change over time and you may not realize it to begin with. Your doctor may also want to keep you on your current antidepressant for a couple of months to give the medication more time to start working and if there continues to be no change, then they might consider switching you to a different one. Medication also works best in combination with psychotherapy, or talk therapy, with cognitive behavioral therapy being the most popular talk therapy for depression.
Side Effects of Antidepressants
As with all medications, there are side effects to using antidepressants. If you do have side effects and they are unmanageable for you then you should speak to your doctor. They may switch your prescription to another type of antidepressant that might work better for you. Some of the side effects are:
Headaches
Nausea or vomiting
Sleeplessness
Agitation, Shakiness, or Anxiety
Weight Gain
Reduced Sex Drive
Dry Mouth
Stomach Aches
Constipation or Diarrhea
Please also be aware that you should not just suddenly go off your medication without the guidance of your doctor. These are serious medications that alter the chemicals in your brain. If you suddenly stop taking them without being weaned off then you may start to experience withdrawal symptoms. Your doctor will most likely have you reduce your dosage gradually over the course of several weeks to help lessen your chances of experiencing withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms can include restlessness, trouble sleeping, unsteadiness, stomach problems, sweating, feeling irritable, anxious, or confused. You should also talk with your doctor if you do have withdrawal symptoms, as there are some alternative approaches that can be taken to help you manage these symptoms. Withdrawal symptoms will usually start about a week after you stop taking your antidepressant and can last for one to two weeks, sometimes longer.
Need Help for Depression?
If you are looking for therapy services for mental health concerns, or if you have any questions regarding our services, call Gemini Health today! Our highly skilled mental health professionals are experienced in treating various mental and behavioral health concerns. They offer both individual and group therapy. Plus, there are no wait times to join groups. Call (301) 363-1063 and speak to our staff to schedule your appointment today!
