When SSRIs and therapy fail to touch depression symptoms, Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) offers patients seeking relief a promising, evidence-based alternative.

Still, the number one question patients have about TMS is: “Is TMS safe?”

Then, they’ll often follow that up with a few more questions: 

“Does TMS have any side effects?”

“What are the most common side effects of TMS?”

“Will I have negative side effects from TMS?”

If you have these questions – good. You should be asking questions like these when you’re considering any type of medical treatment.

At Shanti TMS, we believe in providing comprehensive information to empower our patients. This guide will delve into the common and rare side effects associated with TMS treatment, how they are managed, and why TMS is considered a safe, FDA-approved option for depression relief.

Is TMS Safe? The Overall Safety of TMS Therapy

It’s important to preface this discussion by emphasizing that TMS is generally considered safe, with most side effects being mild and temporary. Some patients experience zero side effects. 

TMS uses magnets, not radioactivity. In other words, TMS does NOT involve ionizing radiation.  

Unlike some medication-based treatments, TMS carries no known adverse effects on cognitive function. 

Many patients appreciate that TMS avoids the systemic side effects often associated with antidepressants, such as weight gain, dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, or memory issues. TMS is not typically associated with any of these side effects. 

In fact, the safety profile of TMS is often compared to that of an MRI, highlighting its safe, non-invasive nature.

When They Occur, Side Effects from TMS are Usually Mild and Temporary 

The vast majority of individuals undergoing TMS treatment experience only mild discomfort, primarily during or immediately after their sessions. These common side effects typically improve over time as the body adjusts to the treatment.

Headaches

The most frequently reported side effect of TMS is a headache, affecting approximately 20-32% of patients receiving active treatment. These headaches are usually tension-type and are thought to be caused by the magnetic field stimulating muscles in the scalp. They are typically mild and often respond well to over-the-counter pain relievers. 

If they occur, the intensity and frequency of these headaches often diminish naturally over the course of treatment.

Scalp Discomfort or Pain

Another common complaint is discomfort or pain at the site of stimulation on the scalp. This occurs in about 18% of patients and is a direct result of the magnetic pulses causing contractions in the scalp muscles. 

Similar to headaches, this discomfort is usually mild and tends to lessen with subsequent treatment sessions as the scalp becomes accustomed to the sensation.

Tingling, Spasms, or Twitching of Facial Muscles

Approximately 21% of patients may experience tingling, spasms, or twitching in the facial muscles. This is due to the magnetic field stimulating nerves and muscles in the area surrounding the treatment coil. 

These sensations are temporary and typically subside shortly after the treatment session concludes.

Other Mild Sensations

Less frequently, patients might report other mild sensations such as:

• Lightheadedness: A transient feeling that can occur during or immediately after a session.
• Eye or Jaw Discomfort: Resulting from the stimulation of nearby nerves and muscles.

Sleep Pattern Changes

Some individuals may experience changes in their sleep patterns, including insomnia (reported by about 8% of patients) or an increased need for sleep, and occasionally, more vivid dreams. 

These changes are usually temporary and can be discussed with your treatment team for potential adjustments.

Managing Common Side Effects

The good news is that these common side effects are generally mild to moderate and tend to improve quickly after each session. Most discomfort fades within minutes, and as patients progress through their treatment course, the severity of these symptoms often decreases. 

Most of our patients are able to pop into our clinic and then head to work without issues, but at Shanti TMS, our dedicated team is always on hand to address any discomfort. We can adjust stimulation levels or recommend over-the-counter pain medication to help manage symptoms effectively, ensuring your treatment experience is as comfortable as possible.

Rare but Serious Side Effects of TMS – and the Treatment Protocols We Use to Minimize Risk

While the vast majority of TMS patients experience only mild, temporary side effects, it’s important to be aware of the extremely rare but more serious potential adverse events.

Seizures

The most concerning serious side effect is a seizure. However, the risk is incredibly low, estimated at less than 0.01% per session (less than 1 in 10,000). The risk is slightly higher for individuals with a pre-existing seizure disorder or those taking medications, such as certain tricyclic antidepressants, that can lower the seizure threshold. 

A thorough medical evaluation, including a review of your medical history and current medications, is conducted before starting TMS to minimize this risk.

Mania

In rare cases, particularly in individuals with undiagnosed or unstable bipolar disorder, TMS can induce a manic episode. 

This highlights the importance of a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation prior to starting treatment. 

Hearing Loss or Tinnitus

While extremely rare, there is a theoretical risk of hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears) due to the acoustic feedback during treatment. 

This risk is minimized by the use of ear protection provided during each session and the short duration of sound exposure.

Fainting (Syncope)

Fainting is another known, though infrequent, side effect. This can be triggered by psychological factors like anxiety or physiological factors such as dehydration. 

Our team always monitors patients closely during sessions to address any signs of discomfort or potential fainting.

The Shanti TMS Difference: Personalized Care and Safety Protocols

At Shanti TMS, we prioritize patient safety and comfort above all else. 

As a locally owned and physician-led clinic, we offer a level of personal and consistent care that sets us apart. 

You’re never just a number here; you’ll be treated by the same small, tight-knit, dedicated team throughout your entire journey. Crucially, a physician is always on-site and available during every appointment. This means any concerns about side effects can be immediately addressed by a medical professional who is intimately familiar with your treatment plan and overall health.

Our commitment to personalized care extends to how we manage potential side effects. We carefully individualize treatment parameters, taking into account your unique needs and responses. Our team continuously monitors your comfort levels and can make real-time adjustments to ensure the most effective and tolerable treatment experience.

Your Treatment, Your Choice: Is TMS Right for You?

Understanding the potential side effects of TMS treatment is an important step in your decision-making process. While mild and temporary side effects like headaches and scalp discomfort are common, serious adverse events are exceedingly rare. The overall safety profile of TMS, coupled with its non-invasive nature and lack of systemic medication-related side effects, makes it a compelling option for those seeking lasting relief from depression.

If you’ve been struggling to find hope and lasting relief from depression, TMS may be the next step. At Shanti TMS, we’re dedicated to providing attentive care and evidence-based treatment that truly puts you first. We invite you to explore whether TMS is the right path for you.

Ready to learn more? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.