Comparison to Other Depression Therapies COMPARISON TABLE OF DEPRESSION THERAPIES PHARMACOTHERAPY ELECTROCONVULSIVE THERAPY (ECT) VAGUS NERVE STIMULATOR (VNS)

Comparison Table of Depression Therapies The following table provides a generalized comparison of rTMS therapy with pharmacotherapy (i.e. drugs or medication) and ECT therapy. Comparison Pharmacotherapy (Medication) Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) rTMS Effectiveness 66% * 65 - 80% Comparable or superior to ECT Onset of Therapeutic Effect 6 weeks 2 weeks 2 weeks Side Effects Headache, dry mouth, dizziness, weakness, constipation, lightheadedness, weight and appetite change, sexual dysfunction Short term/long term memory loss, muscle aches, nausea, mood swings, recurrent headaches Mild headache (resolves in 3 hours or with 1 dose of Tylenol) Incidence of Side Effects 67% experience at least one significant side effect and up to 80% experience drug induced sexual dysfunction 100% 10% *of compliant patients; 20% cannot tolerate a complete course of medication  Back to top

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