Living with depression can be overwhelming, but for some people, the challenge is even greater when traditional options don’t bring the relief they hoped for. So you may be asking, what is treatment-resistant depression?
Lack of relief from depression symptoms using traditional medications is called treatment-resistant depression (TRD). If you or a loved one has Major Depressive Disorder or depression with comorbid anxiety, you may have questions about the options that exist to relieve your symptoms, including NeuroStar Advanced TMS therapy.
Treatment-resistant depression describes a condition in which you have tried at least two different antidepressant medications at appropriate doses and durations, but your symptoms did not improve significantly. Medications may help only a little, or the benefits may fade over time. Also, you may not tolerate the systemic side effects of prescription antidepressants, such as fatigue, weight gain, digestive issues, sexual dysfunction, or sleep changes.
It’s important to recognize that TRD is not rare. Many people with Major Depressive Disorder find themselves in this situation and wonder if there are other options to reduce or eliminate symptoms. That’s where NeuroStar TMS comes in.
NeuroStar TMS is the #1 physician-recommended treatment for Major Depressive Disorder in adults aged 22 and older, and is FDA-cleared as an adjunct treatment for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). While medications circulate throughout the body and can trigger systemic side effects, NeuroStar TMS uses magnetic pulses to stimulate underactive areas of the brain that play a crucial role in mood regulation.
A full treatment course of TMS for treatment-resistant depression typically lasts seven weeks, with sessions scheduled five days a week. After each appointment you can return to your normal activities, including driving. While improvements are not immediate, many people begin to notice improvement in 4 to 6 weeks. Results can last up to a year.
If you have been diagnosed with Major Depressive Disorder or depression with comorbid anxiety and have not found relief from two or more medications, you may be a candidate for NeuroStar TMS. When you call for a consultation, we review your medical history and current treatment plan to ensure it’s the right option for you.
Understanding treatment-resistant depression helps you know that you are not alone and that there are options beyond medication. Asking about TRD also opens the door to conversations with your provider about whether NeuroStar TMS could be right for you.
More than 7.9 million treatments have been delivered to over 216,000 patients, showing just how many people have turned to NeuroStar TMS in their journey to address depression.
Treatment-resistant depression can feel discouraging, but it doesn’t mean you’re out of options. NeuroStar TMS offers a different approach for those who haven’t found relief through medication.
At Genesis TMS and Wellness, we are here to answer your questions, including those regarding treatment-resistant depression. We support you as you explore new possibilities for improving your mental health and overall quality of life.
