- Antidepressants work throughout the body, while TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood.
- TMS may be considered when medications have not helped enough or have caused difficult side effects.
- Some people benefit from using more than one treatment approach.
- The best choice depends on your symptoms, health history, past treatments, and personal preferences.
When depression has been part of your life for a while, deciding what to try next can feel exhausting. Zephyr Behavioral Health and Wellness helps clients understand their options without pushing a one-size-fits-all answer. Medication works well for many people. TMS may be another option, especially when previous treatments have not provided enough relief.
Understanding TMS vs. antidepressants can help you have a more useful conversation with your mental health provider.
How Do Antidepressants Work?
Antidepressants affect chemical signaling in the brain. Different types work in different ways, but commonly prescribed options include SSRIs, SNRIs, and several other medication classes.
These medications are usually taken daily. Some people notice early changes within a few weeks, but it can take longer to understand the full effect of a medication or dose adjustment.
Finding the right medication can also take some trial and error. A treatment that works well for one person may not work the same way for someone else.
Possible side effects vary by medication but can include:
- Nausea or digestive changes
- Sleep changes
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sexual side effects
- Changes in appetite or weight
A provider can help weigh these risks against potential benefits and adjust treatment when needed.
How Does TMS Work?
Transcranial magnetic stimulation uses a device placed against the scalp to deliver magnetic pulses to targeted areas of the brain involved in depression.
Unlike medication, Standard TMS does not circulate throughout the body. Treatment is noninvasive and does not require anesthesia.
A typical course involves repeated sessions over several weeks. Improvement is usually evaluated across the treatment course rather than after a single session.
The FDA has cleared TMS devices for certain depression indications. Specific eligibility depends on the device, diagnosis, treatment history, and other clinical factors.
When Might TMS Be Considered?
TMS is often discussed when depression has not improved enough after antidepressant treatment or when medication side effects have been hard to tolerate.
It may also appeal to clients who want to discuss alternative depression treatments that do not involve taking another daily medication.
That does not mean TMS is automatically the next step for everyone. A provider should review your diagnosis, medical history, medications, previous treatment response, and any factors that could affect whether TMS is appropriate.
What Are the Side Effects of TMS?
TMS generally has a different side-effect profile from antidepressants because treatment is delivered directly to the scalp rather than throughout the body.
Common effects can include scalp discomfort or headache during or after treatment. These symptoms often become easier to tolerate as treatment continues.
Serious risks are uncommon but can occur. Seizure is a recognized rare risk, which is one reason providers screen clients carefully before treatment.
Can You Use TMS and Antidepressants Together?
Yes, in some cases.
Mental health care does not always involve choosing one treatment and stopping everything else. Some clients receive TMS while continuing antidepressant medication, psychotherapy, or other supportive care.
The right combination depends on the individual.
Which Depression Treatment Is Right for You?
There are many depression treatments, and the right choice depends on more than a diagnosis alone. Medication may be a good starting point for some clients. Others may want to explore TMS after medications have not worked well enough or have caused unwanted side effects.
Zephyr offers a hybrid model with telehealth consultations across Colorado and in-office specialty care in South Denver. Our team also handles insurance verification and prior authorization for TMS to make the process easier to manage.
If you are wondering whether TMS could fit into your care, contact us to schedule a free 15-minute consultation. CZephyr Behavioral Health and Wellness can answer general questions and help you determine the best next steps for your mental health.
Photographer: simona pilolla 2 / Shutterstock
