Is TMS better than medication for depression?

TMS and antidepressants work through different mechanisms. TMS directly stimulates the prefrontal cortex with magnetic pulses; antidepressants alter chemistry throughout the body. For treatment-resistant patients who have not responded to medications, TMS often produces better outcomes with fewer systemic side effects. For patients who have not tried medications, antidepressants remain a valid first-line option.

How does TMS compare to ECT?

ECT requires general anesthesia and induces a controlled seizure. It is highly effective for severe, treatment-resistant depression and catatonia, but carries risks of anesthesia, memory side effects, and requires a companion for transport. TMS is non-invasive, requires no sedation, and causes no cognitive impairment. Most patients prefer TMS when both are viable options.

Which TMS device is best?

All FDA-cleared TMS devices (NeuroStar, BrainsWay, MagVenture, Magstim, CloudTMS, Nexstim) have strong clinical evidence. NeuroStar has the largest US market share. BrainsWay is the only one with OCD clearance via deep TMS. The best device for you depends on your condition, insurance coverage, and what your local clinic uses. Device choice should be made with your treating psychiatrist.

Can I switch from TMS to ketamine or vice versa?

Yes, many patients explore both treatments. TMS and ketamine work through different mechanisms and can be complementary. Some clinics now offer both treatments. Your psychiatrist can help determine the right sequencing based on your treatment history, severity, and how quickly you need results.

Which comparison should I read first?

Start with TMS vs. Medication if you are newly diagnosed. Read TMS vs. ECT if you have severe or treatment-resistant depression. For device comparisons, read NeuroStar vs. BrainsWay if you are choosing a clinic — these are the two most common devices in the US.

22 Comparison Guides

Compare
TMS Options

Side-by-side comparisons to help you understand treatment options, device differences, and which approach might be right for your situation.

TMS vs. Medication TMS vs. ECT TMS vs. Ketamine NeuroStar vs. BrainsWay

Watch: TMS Explained in 5 Minutes

Quick overview of how TMS works, how it compares to other treatments, and what to expect.

Full comparison videos are in production. Subscribe to get notified when they launch.

Treatment Comparisons

TMS vs. Other Treatments

How does TMS stack up against medications, ECT, ketamine, therapy, and experimental options?

Procedures

TMS vs ECT (Electroconvulsive Therapy)

Invasiveness, efficacy for severe depression, cognitive side effects, and treatment logistics.

Alternative

TMS vs Ketamine/Spravato

Mechanism of action, speed of results, treatment protocols, cost, and availability.

Medication

TMS vs Antidepressants

Effectiveness, side effects, time to response, long-term outcomes, and insurance coverage.

Therapy

TMS vs CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy)

TMS and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for depression — different mechanisms, combined use.

Therapy

TMS vs Psychotherapy

How TMS and CBT/therapy compare and when to use each alongside the other.

Device

TMS vs VNS (Vagus Nerve Stimulation)

Vagus nerve stimulation vs. TMS — invasive vs. non-invasive, FDA indications, and outcomes.

Surgical

TMS vs DBS (Deep Brain Stimulation)

Deep brain stimulation vs. TMS — invasiveness, target populations, and evidence base.

Alternative

TMS vs Esketamine (Spravato)

Spravato nasal spray vs. TMS for treatment-resistant depression — mechanisms, access, cost.

Experimental

TMS vs Psilocybin Therapy

Psychedelic-assisted therapy vs. TMS for depression — evidence, legality, and patient experience.

Medication

TMS vs Lithium

TMS for bipolar depression vs. lithium — mood stabilization, rapid cycling, and combination therapy.

Device Comparisons