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Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Does it work?

Does it work?


Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved, well-studied treatment for Major Depressive Disorder, particularly for individuals who have not experienced sufficient improvement with medication alone.In both large clinical trials and real-world practice settings, approximately 60–70% of appropriately selected patients experience meaningful improvement with TMS treatment. Of those patients, 30–50% achieve remission, meaning their depressive symptoms significantly diminish or resolve. For individuals who have already tried multiple antidepressants without adequate relief, these outcomes are clinically meaningful.

Unlike medication, TMS does not circulate through the body or add systemic side effects. It works by gently stimulating specific brain regions involved in mood regulation, helping restore more typical activity patterns over the course of treatment.While no treatment works for everyone, TMS has been extensively studied for over two decades. Its effectiveness has been demonstrated in large, multi-center trials as well as in routine clinical practice.

At Bluegrass TMS, we conduct a careful evaluation to determine whether TMS is likely to be helpful in your specific situation. Our goal is not simply to offer TMS — it is to recommend the right treatment at the right time, based on your history, symptoms, and overall clinical picture.For many individuals who have felt stuck despite trying medication, TMS represents a well-supported, non-pharmacological path forward.

If you are wondering whether it may be appropriate for you, we encourage you to complete our “Is TMS Right for Me?” questionnaire or schedule a consultation.