Effects, Outcomes, Price Tag, and Additional Details of Therapeutic Measures for Bipolar Disorder
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a promising approach for managing symptoms of bipolar disorder (BD), although it is not currently FDA-approved for this specific indication.
TMS is a non-invasive technique that uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain's electrical activity in certain areas. This procedure is generally considered safe and non-invasive, but it may cause side effects such as headaches, scalp discomfort, dizziness, anxiety, brief headaches, and, in some cases, pain during the procedure. Seizures are a rare but potential risk associated with TMS.
Each TMS session lasts approximately 40 minutes, and the number of sessions required to treat BD varies from person to person. The costs of TMS for BD are not yet known, but an older study suggested that each session could cost around $200.
TMS has shown success in treating depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Some studies suggest it could be effective in treating BD, particularly for those with depressive symptoms who have not responded well to other treatments. In a study, 77% of participants met their response criteria, and 41% of those who had at least 25 treatments met remission criteria. However, some participants discontinued treatment due to concerns about activating mania.
As of mid-2025, TMS is FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and certain other conditions like OCD and smoking cessation. For BD, its use remains off-label, meaning it is used based on clinical judgment and emerging evidence but without formal FDA approval for that indication.
A physical examination, psychiatric evaluation, review of personal and family history, and review of any implanted metal plates or devices are typically part of the preparation process for TMS. To find an active study for TMS for BD, a person can contact their primary care doctor or search for studies on ClinicalTrials.gov.
In 2020, the FDA gave TMS a "breakthrough device designation" for the treatment of BD, indicating that sufficient evidence supports its use. However, there is a need for additional research to fully understand TMS's effectiveness and safety in people living with BD.
In conclusion, TMS is a promising treatment option for individuals living with BD, particularly those experiencing depressive symptoms. As research continues, TMS may become a more widely used and formally approved treatment for BD.
TMS, while currently not FDA-approved for managing bipolar disorder (BD), is being explored as a potential treatment due to its success in treating other neurological disorders like major depressive disorder (MDD) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Mental health professionals consider TMS a safe and non-invasive method to stimulate the brain's electrical activity, despite the possibility of side effects such as headaches, dizziness, and anxiety. Behind TMS's emerging potential for BD treatment lies ongoing research and investigations, particularly focusing on its effectiveness and safety in managing health-and-wellness conditions like BD and mental-health disorders.
