Indications and Contraindications for TMS Therapy

Is TMS Right for You?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive treatment for patients who haven’t found relief with medication or therapy. This page outlines who is an appropriate candidate for TMS, as well as medical situations where treatment may not be recommended, ensuring safe and effective care.

Indications for Treatment

Ask yourself the following questions:

Have you tried two or more antidepressant medications without lasting relief?
Are medication side effects making it difficult to continue treatment?
Has your motivation, sleep, or overall well-being been affected despite treatment?
Are you looking for a non-drug therapy with proven results?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, TMS Therapy may be the right option for you.

Who Cannot Receive TMS Therapy?

Contraindications for TMS Treatment

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a safe and well-tolerated therapy for most patients. However, there are certain situations where TMS may not be appropriate due to the presence of metallic or electronic implants near the treatment area.

These may include:

Implanted electrodes or stimulators
Aneurysm clips or coils
Cochlear implants (hearing devices)
Stents or shunts within the head
Deep brain stimulators or neurostimulators

Note:

Patients with cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) cannot receive TMS therapy.
Dental fillings, implants, and piercings are not contraindications and do not interfere with treatment.
In some cases, certain types of stents or implants may still be compatible with TMS — always consult with your provider to determine safety.

TMS uses strong magnetic fields, so individuals with non-removable ferromagnetic or electronic devices located within 30 cm (12 inches) of the treatment coil should not undergo TMS therapy without medical clearance.

Schedule a Consultation

At Sleep, TMS & Wellness Center, Dr. Adarsh Gupta carefully reviews each patient’s medical history and imaging before starting treatment to ensure safety and suitability. Call (516) 684-9535 for a personalized TMS evaluation.