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Treatment Side-Effects: TMS vs. SSRI Meds

TMS has emerged as a viable treatment option for depression, anxiety, OCD, and other mental health conditions. Its popularity is largely due to the fact that it is non-invasive, has little to no side-effects, and is an effective treatment for many people. In contrast, SSRI medications (the most common type of antidepressant) often come with a host of potential side-effects, including but not limited to: weight gain, sexual side-effects, gastrointestinal issues, and headaches. This blog will review TMS vs. SSRI Meds in regard to treatment side-effects.

For many people, the side-effects of SSRI medications are simply not worth the relief they provide. TMS, on the other hand, has few to no side-effects and is an effective treatment option for many people. This is the main benefit of TMS vs. SSRI Meds.

TMS therapy, or transcranial magnetic stimulation, is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate nerve cells in the brain. TMS is typically well-tolerated, with the most common side-effects being headaches and scalp discomfort at the site of stimulation. These side-effects are generally mild and resolve within a few days to weeks of treatment.

In contrast, SSRI medications (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are a type of antidepressant that work by affecting chemical levels in the brain. Common side-effects associated with SSRIs include nausea, diarrhea, sexual dysfunction, and drowsiness. These side-effects can range from mild to severe, and may persist throughout the duration of treatment.

SSRIs work by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in regulating mood. When serotonin levels are low, people can experience symptoms of depression. SSRIs work to increase serotonin levels by blocking its reabsorption back into nerve cells.

While SSRIs are effective for some people, they are not without their drawbacks. For many people, the side-effects of SSRIs are simply not worth the relief they provide. TMS, on the other hand, has few to no side-effects and is an effective treatment option for many people.

If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, anxiety, or another mental health condition, please reach out to us at info@psyfitms.com and learn more about our TMS treatment at www.psyfitms.com.

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