If your depression hasn’t improved with traditional treatments like medication or therapy, and you’re exploring newer options such as TMS or ketamine, you may have questions about each type of therapy.
While both are used for treatment-resistant depression, they work in very different ways and may be appropriate for different people.
You don’t have to navigate this decision alone. During your evaluation at Allied Psychiatry & Mental Health in Newport Beach, California, Dr. Hadi Estakhri reviews your medical history and symptoms and recommends the right therapy for you.
Dr. Estakhri explains each treatment in depth so you’ll know exactly what to expect. In the meantime, read on to learn the differences between TMS and ketamine therapy.
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to combat depression. These magnetic pulses stimulate specific areas of your brain that are involved in mood regulation. It doesn’t require any medication, anesthesia, or sedation.
TMS is typically performed in an outpatient setting and works for about 60% of people with treatment-resistant depression. (Compare this to 73.5% of people with treatment-resistant depression who saw no improvement after six months with oral antidepressants alone.)
During TMS treatment, a magnetic coil is placed on your head to deliver targeted stimulation to your brain. You’re awake and alert throughout the entire treatment.
You might be drawn to TMS as a potential treatment because:
Many people continue their daily activities immediately after treatment. It’s important to note the treatment length before committing to this option. It’s usually performed five times a week for a total of 4-6 weeks.
Ketamine therapy uses a medication that affects glutamate, a neurotransmitter involved in mood and brain signaling. Ketamine is known for producing rapid symptom relief, sometimes within hours or days.
Ketamine therapy:
Dr. Estakhri offers ketamine in two formats: intravenously or through a nasal spray called Spravato®.
One of the biggest differences between TMS and ketamine is how the treatment feels.
TMS sessions are generally well-tolerated. Some people notice mild scalp discomfort or tapping sensations, especially early on, but serious side effects are uncommon.
Ketamine treatment can feel more intense. You may experience dissociation, changes in perception, or even feel sleepy during sessions.
Because ketamine affects perception, you should plan on a friend or family member driving you home after your session. You may feel groggy after your IV. This is normal and short-lived. The effects typically wear off within about an hour.
Ketamine is often chosen for its fast onset of symptom relief, which can be helpful in severe or urgent cases. However, the benefits may fade without maintenance treatments.
TMS tends to work more gradually, with improvement building over time. Many people choose TMS for its potential long-lasting benefits without ongoing medication exposure.
So, which treatment is the best fit for you? There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The right treatment for you depends on:
Dr. Estakhri reviews all of this with you during your evaluation.
If you’re considering advanced options for treatment-resistant depression and want guidance, schedule a consultation today to talk through your options and next steps. Call our office at 949-945-0927 or book an appointment online.
