Combination Therapy with Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Ketamine for Treatment-Resistant Depression: A Long-Term Retrospective Review of Clinical Use
In this National Library of Medicine-published study, researchers investigated a new approach to help people who were struggling with depression that hadn’t improved with usual treatments.
The researchers combined two treatments: transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and ketamine. TMS involves using magnets to send small pulses to specific parts of the brain. It’s believed to positively influence brain activity, especially for people with depression. Ketamine, on the other hand, is typically used as an anesthetic or painkiller. However, lower doses have shown surprising potential in quickly and effectively alleviating depression symptoms.
The unique aspect of this study was using both TMS and ketamine together. By analyzing past medical records of patients who had received this combined therapy, the researchers aimed to understand if this approach was more effective than using each treatment separately. Importantly, they were interested in the long-term effects, not just immediate results after treatment.
In essence, the study explored the idea of combining transcranial magnetic stimulation and ketamine to treat depression that had resisted other treatments. By examining patient records over a longer period, the researchers sought to determine the safety and effectiveness of this combined therapy. This research offers hope for those dealing with tough-to-treat depression by investigating new ways to help them find relief and improve their well-being.
Source: National Library of Medicine
Combined Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Ketamine for Treatment of Suicidal
Ideation, Refractory Mood Disorder, Neurotoxicity and Pain: a Case Report
This Scientific Literature: Anxiety and Depression Journal article presents a detailed case study of an individual facing a complex set of challenges including suicidal thoughts, a mood disorder that wasn’t responding to treatment, neurotoxicity-related issues, and pain. To address these issues, a combination of treatments was used: transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which involves using magnets to stimulate a specific part of the brain known as the anterior cingulate cortex, and ketamine, a medication with potential mood-enhancing effects. Throughout the study, various assessments like the Brief Pain Inventory-Short Form, Overall Anxiety Severity measure, and Patient Health Questionnaire were used, along with brain imaging techniques like Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT). The results showed positive outcomes, with improvements in mood, pain reduction, and a decrease in suicidal ideation observed in the patient. This case study underscores the potential benefits of combining TMS and ketamine to address complex mental health and pain-related challenges in an individual.
Source: Scientific Literature