Recent research from scientists at the University of Cambridge and Guiyang, China, has highlighted a novel approach to treating depression using accelerated repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). This method, which involves delivering magnetic fields to the brain, aims to enhance treatment efficacy for patients unresponsive to standard therapies.
The study, published in Psychological Medicine on November 5, 2024, involved 75 participants suffering from severe depression, who were treated at the Second People's Hospital in Guizhou province, China. The researchers compared three different treatment protocols: a dual approach targeting both the left and right sides of the brain, a single treatment on the left side, and a control group receiving simulated treatment.
Results showed that the dual treatment group experienced significantly greater improvements, with nearly half of the participants achieving clinically relevant reductions in depression symptoms. This innovative approach could potentially expedite recovery for individuals facing severe depressive episodes, including those with suicidal tendencies.
Professor Valerie Voon from the University of Cambridge emphasized the importance of this rapid treatment method, suggesting it could lead to quicker hospital discharges and more effective management of severe depression.