A review of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for adolescents with treatment-resistant depression

Abstract

This review examines the efficacy and safety of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) as a treatment for treatment-resistant depression in adolescents. A systematic review of six databases was conducted. Ten multi-subject trials, all uncontrolled, and five case reports met inclusion criteria. Twelve studies focused on treatment efficacy, whereas three studies focused exclusively on adverse events. All efficacy studies focused on adolescents only; 10 of these studies indicated that rTMS may demonstrate some benefit. Improvement within 2–8 weeks was reported in most studies, with a few studies indicating potential long-term benefits. A variety of adverse events occurred including scalp pain, which was the most common, as well as seizures. Controlled studies of rTMS are warranted to further examine whether this treatment is a potential option for adolescents with treatment-resistant depression.

Keywords:

• Depression
• paediatric
• repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation

Disclosure statement

Drs Magavi and Vasa report no conflicts of interest. Dr Reti has received supplies at no cost from Neuronetics, Inc. Dr Reti was and is site principal investigator on multi-site TMS trials sponsored by Brainsway, Inc. and the US Department of Defense.