RTMS is effective in reducing symptoms of depression and improving cognition in bipolar disorder patients.
An electromagnetic coil is placed on the patient’s scalp targeting the brain region involved in regulating mood and depression. Magnetic pulses are repetitively passed through the brain through the coil which results in long-lasting changes in the brain, that helps improve symptoms of depression in bipolar disorder.
There is the potential of side effects and the risk of induced mania on receiving RTMS treatment. However, the side effects, if present, are mild and temporary, such as headache, sleep problems, scalp pain, nausea, fatigue, dizziness, and anxiety. The risk of mania switching in RTMS is low, and to combat it, it is recommended that the patient is prescribed a mood stabilizer in conjunction.
The number of treatment sessions required depends on the patient’s condition and their response to the treatment.