- Three out of 12 scientific studies found no clinical effects of rTMS on depressions. Seven studies reports clinical effects of limited magnitude (less than 50% reduction of depression measured by accepted instruments at the end of treatment). Two studies demonstrate a clinical response to treatment with rTMS (larger than 50% reduction in depression).
- None of the studies document rTMS effects beyond the treatment period.
- Two studies compares rTMS with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), and these studies finds differences in favour of ECT. The patients were not followed after the treatment period.
- The cost of ECT and rTMS treatment is comparable.
- rTMS is well tolerated and has few side effects.
- There is presently a lack of clinical documentation that justifies rTMS in widespread management of depressed patients.