Can You Take Antidepressants with TMS? What Science Says
Wondering if you can take antidepressants while getting TMS therapy? The answer: Yes, in most cases—it’s safe and may even make TMS more effective. But should you adjust your medication? Could it impact side effects? In this guide, we’ll break down the latest research, real patient results, and expert recommendations to help you make the best decision for your treatment.
What Is TMS Therapy and How Does It Work?
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment for individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) who haven’t found relief with antidepressants.
How TMS Stimulates the Brain to Treat Depression
TMS works by delivering magnetic pulses to specific brain regions involved in mood regulation. This stimulates neural activity, promoting changes in brain function that help alleviate symptoms of depression.
Why Choose TMS?
Many patients prefer TMS because it offers:
✅ A drug-free approach with minimal side effects.
✅ Proven effectiveness for treatment-resistant depression.
✅ A non-invasive alternative to medication or electroconvulsive therapy (ECT).
At Dignity Brain Health in Brookline, MA, we specialize in personalized TMS therapy, helping patients across the Boston area find long-term relief from depression.
Why Patients Consider Taking Antidepressants During TMS Therapy
Many individuals already take antidepressants when they begin TMS. Naturally, they wonder whether they should continue or stop their medication during treatment.
How Antidepressants May Enhance TMS Effectiveness
🔹 Enhanced Effectiveness – Research suggests that combining TMS with medication may increase treatment success. A 2020 meta-analysis (Rakesh et al.) found that patients receiving both TMS and antidepressants had higher remission rates than those using TMS alone.
TMS is effective as both a standalone treatment and as an adjunct to antidepressant therapy. Patients receiving both TMS and antidepressants had significantly higher remission rates compared to those undergoing TMS alone.
What Happens If You Stop Antidepressants Before TMS?
🔹 Preventing Withdrawal Symptoms – Suddenly stopping antidepressants can cause dizziness, nausea, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Tapering off under medical supervision can help avoid discomfort.
🔹 Individualized Treatment Plans – Some patients may benefit from gradually reducing their medication, while others respond best when keeping antidepressants in their regimen.
Every case is different, and treatment should always be customized based on medical history and symptom severity.
Is It Safe to Take Antidepressants During TMS?
Yes, in most cases, continuing antidepressants while receiving TMS is safe.
Which Antidepressants Are Commonly Used with TMS?
Studies have not found major adverse interactions between TMS and common antidepressants, such as:
SSRIs (e.g., Lexapro, Prozac, Zoloft)
SNRIs (e.g., Effexor, Cymbalta)
Atypical antidepressants (e.g., Wellbutrin, Remeron)
Potential Side Effects When Combining TMS and Antidepressants
However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
⚠️ Increased Sensitivity for Some Patients – Certain medications, such as bupropion (Wellbutrin), can lower the seizure threshold, making it important to monitor for heightened stimulation.
⚠️ Managing Side Effects – TMS can cause mild headaches, scalp discomfort, or dizziness, while antidepressants may contribute to nausea, fatigue, or appetite changes. Adjustments may be needed to improve comfort.
⚠️ Medication Adjustments – If a patient responds exceptionally well to TMS, their provider may consider lowering their medication dosage or making adjustments.
Key Takeaway: Most patients can safely continue their medication during TMS therapy. However, a personalized approach is always best.
When Might It Be Recommended to Stop Antidepressants During TMS?
Although most patients continue their antidepressants, there are cases where a provider may recommend pausing or adjusting medication.
Signs That You May Need to Adjust Your Medication
🚨 If the patient experiences agitation or restlessness – Some individuals become more sensitive to TMS stimulation while on certain medications, requiring adjustments.
🚨 If the antidepressant has not been effective – If the patient has had minimal benefit from antidepressants, a provider may gradually taper off the medication to evaluate TMS as a stand-alone treatment.
🚨 If the patient experiences severe side effects – Some medications cause drowsiness, weight gain, or sexual dysfunction, which might lead to reassessing the treatment plan.
Each decision should be made collaboratively with a doctor, ensuring the best treatment path for long-term mental health stability.
What Should Patients Discuss with Their Doctor?
Before starting TMS therapy, it’s important to have a thorough discussion with a healthcare provider about medication use.
Questions to Ask About TMS and Medication Adjustments
Key questions to ask include:
Should I continue taking my current antidepressants during TMS?
Are there any specific medications that could interfere with TMS therapy?
Will my antidepressant dosage need to be adjusted during treatment?
What side effects should I watch for while undergoing TMS?
If I want to discontinue my antidepressant, what is the safest way to do so?
Frequently Asked Questions About TMS & Antidepressants
🔹 Can I take Lexapro (or other SSRIs) during TMS therapy?
Yes, TMS is safe with SSRIs like Lexapro, Prozac, and Zoloft.
🔹 Does TMS work better than antidepressants?
For many people with treatment-resistant depression, TMS can be more effective than medication alone.
🔹 Should I stop my antidepressants before TMS?
Most doctors recommend continuing your medication, but individual adjustments may be needed.
Conclusion: The Best Approach is Individualized
Ultimately, whether to continue taking antidepressants during TMS therapy is a decision that should be made collaboratively between a patient and their healthcare provider. Evidence suggests that combining TMS with antidepressants can enhance treatment outcomes without significant risks, making it a viable option for many individuals struggling with depression. However, individual factors such as medication tolerance, treatment history, and symptom severity should be carefully evaluated.
If you are considering TMS therapy and currently take antidepressants, consult with your doctor to develop a treatment plan that best supports your mental health goals.
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Looking for TMS Therapy Near You? Where to Get TMS Therapy for Depression in Boston
📍 Conveniently located near:
✅ Boston, Cambridge, Newton, Alston, Somerville, & Back Bay
Dignity Brain Health - TMS Therapy Clinic
💡 Why Choose Dignity Brain Health for TMS?
✔️ Expert Boston TMS Specialists – Harvard Medical School-trained; Treating depression with TMS since 2017.
✔️ Personalized Treatment Plans – Tailored to your unique mental health needs.
✔️ Insurance-Friendly Process – We handle the paperwork for you.
✔️ Proven Results – TMS can improve symptoms for patients who haven’t responded to medication.
📅 Take the First Step Toward Relief
👉 📆 Find Out If TMS Is Right for You; Book Your TMS Consultation Now (Insurance-Covered)
💬 Still have questions? Contact us today and speak with a specialist about whether TMS therapy is right for you!
🌍 Mental Health Resources in Boston for Depression & TMS Therapy
If you or a loved one are struggling with depression, these trusted resources in Boston offer professional support:
🔹 Massachusetts General Hospital Psychiatry Department – Offers psychiatric evaluations, therapy, and medication management for depression and anxiety.
🔹 Boston University Center for Psychiatric Rehabilitation – Specializes in mental health recovery programs, vocational rehabilitation, and outpatient services.
🔹 Samaritans Boston (Suicide Prevention) – A free 24/7 crisis helpline offering confidential emotional support.
Dignity Brain Health is committed to helping patients find the best mental health care in the greater Boston area.
References
Cole, E. J., Stimpson, K. H., Bentzley, B. S., Gulser, M., Cherian, K., Tischler, C., et al. (2020). "Stanford Accelerated Intelligent Neuromodulation Therapy for Treatment-Resistant Depression." Brain Stimulation, 13(5), 1273–1282. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brs.2020.07.013
Rakesh, G., Cordero, P., Khanal, R., Himelhoch, S. S., & Rush, C. R. (2020). Optimally combining transcranial magnetic stimulation with antidepressants in major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 123, 123–135. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.01.004
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CONTACT INFO:
DIGNITY BRAIN HEALTH
1101 BEACON STREET, SUITE 8W
BROOKLINE, MA, 02446
UNITED STATES
Phone: (617) 855-7288