Clinical Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Bipolar Disorder

Abstract

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is being investigated for psychiatric disorders such as posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), and both phases of bipolar disorder. Case series, open trials, and randomized controlled studies have demonstrated preliminary support for treating PTSD with rTMS alone as well as with rTMS combined with psychotherapy. Similarly, there is some evidence that GAD can be treated with rTMS. The results for treating either phase of bipolar disorder are mixed with most of the current studies showing lack of benefit over sham. Further study is required before rTMS can be recommended for these disorders.

Keywords: Bipolar disorder; GAD; Generalized anxiety disorder; PTSD; Posttraumatic stress disorder; TMS; Transcranial magnetic stimulation.