Study Finds Magnetic Stimulation Less Effective Than ECT
Unlike ECT, which involves applying an electrical current in order to induce a seizure, rTMS is a therapy that uses a pulsed magnetic field on areas of the brain that are believed to be affected by depression. It has been hailed as a promising alternative to ECT because it does not produce the negative side-effects that ECT does, such as memory loss.
In a press release regarding this study, Dr. Robert Freedman, editor-in-chief of the American Journal of Psychiatry said, “ECT, despite its stigmatization, continues to be the most effective treatment available for depression resistant to usual drug and psychotherapies. This study affirms that the newer magnetic stimulation method, despite some initial promise, is not as effective.”
In an interview with an MDConsult reporter, Dr. Philip Janicak, a professor of psychiatry at Rush Medical College, Chicago, offered a different assessment, pointing out that out of eight studies to date, five have shown equivalence. He believes that the latest study may have not taken an aggressive enough approach. “The study is just one more piece of the puzzle at this point, " he remarked. "I would judge that the jury is still out."
Comments
Great article.I liked it very much
Although the scientist have discovered there are better ways to cure depression for me the magnetic therapy is the best possible because in my case this was the only thing that helped me.