Understanding the safety and potential side effects of NeuroStar TMS therapy can help patients in Santa Fe feel more confident about their decision to receive treatment. At Chrysalis Psychiatry, our providers prioritize clear education, so you know what to expect before, during, and after care.
NeuroStar transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been extensively studied and is widely recognized as a safe, non-invasive option for adults with certain diagnosed conditions.
NeuroStar TMS uses targeted magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of your brain involved in mood regulation. It does not require anesthesia, sedation, or surgery, and you are awake and alert during each session. Because the stimulation is localized, it does not circulate through your body the way medications do.
When it comes to the safety profile of TMS treatment, the FDA has cleared NeuroStar TMS following multiple clinical trials involving adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) who have not had significant improvement using antidepressant medications.
Most of our Santa Fe clients tolerate NeuroStar TMS therapy well, though mild side effects can occur, especially early in the treatment schedule. These effects are usually temporary and tend to lessen over time. For example, you might experience a mild headache during or after a session, or scalp discomfort or pressure at the treatment site. Some people report facial muscle tension or tingling or tapping sensations on the scalp during treatment.
These sensations are usually short-lived and manageable. We can adjust your stimulation settings to improve your comfort while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
Most people report that the discomfort felt with NeuroStar TMS is mild and well-tolerated. Sensations often decrease over time as you adjust to the treatment. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient for mild headaches, though many of our clients do not require any pain relief for these side effects. We encourage you to be open with us about your concerns about the safety profile or potential side effects of NeuroStar TMS, so we can make adjustments to support your comfort.
While mild side effects are more common, serious complications and safety risks associated with NeuroStar TMS therapy are rare, but it is important for Santa Fe patients to understand them. The most significant potential risk is seizure, which occurs in a very small percentage of patients. Large safety reviews estimate the risk to be fewer than one in 10,000 treatment sessions when appropriate screening is performed.
Another uncommon risk is auditory discomfort if proper ear protection is not used. This is why we provide earplugs or noise-reducing devices as standard during treatment.
Certain medical factors require careful review before beginning NeuroStar TMS therapy. If you have a history of seizure disorders, specific neurological conditions, or metal implants near your head, you may not be a suitable candidate.
Before recommending NeuroStar TMS therapy, we conduct a thorough evaluation that includes your medical history, current medications, and any neurological considerations. Our goal is to reduce your potential for side effects, and this screening process is a key reason NeuroStar TMS therapy maintains such a strong safety record.
NeuroStar TMS has a well-established safety profile supported by years of clinical research. While mild discomfort or temporary side effects may occur, serious complications are uncommon when care is delivered by experienced providers following established guidelines.
If you are considering the safety and side effects of TMS therapy in Santa Fe, schedule an evaluation at Chrysalis Psychiatry and let us help you understand whether this option aligns with your needs.
