Learn more about TMS and addiction

Substance use disorder (SUD) and psychoactive substance use disorder (PSUD), commonly known as drug and/or alcohol addiction, are mental health disorders recognized by the DSM5. The persistent use of drugs and/or alcohol despite significant harm and negative consequences as a direct result of use characterizes these disorders.

SUD/addictions are associated with a range of emotional and psychological problems and often co-exist with other mental illnesses. Mental illness is considered a risk factor for addiction. The subsequent harm and consequences of addiction can be far reaching, including negative impacts on individuals’ physical and mental health, as well as on their economic situation, their families, communities and society in general.

According to the WHO, in 2017, 271 million people globally (5.5% of adults) were estimated to have used one or more illicit drugs. Of these, 35 million were considered to have substance use disorder. And of these 35 million, only one in seven was estimated to have received treatment.

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy works by sending short magnetic pulses to target the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) – the area of the brain affected by the symptoms of addiction, specifically craving and compulsion. Activating the DLFPC with high-frequency TMS will enhance decision-making processes and counteract the substance-seeking and impulsive behavior, as well as enhancing the ability to cope with cravings, by enhancing the function of DLFPC. MagVenture’s TMS therapy CE approvals are based on dedicated clinical TMS research studies.

A pilot study conducted at Novella Fronda Foundation demonstrated a 69% effect for the TMS group compared to 19% for the control group receiving the standard of care treatment for addiction. These initial findings were followed by an observational study of 284 people with cocaine addiction. After receiving TMS therapy, they were followed for two years and eight months. The results clearly showed that TMS therapy led to long-lasting reductions in cocaine use.

Graziella Madeo, neurologist and coordinator of the research project, explains: “TMS can change the abnormal behavior by targeting the underlying brain-circuit dysfunction induced by substance use. Not only is craving reduced or absent, but our patients also experience changes in other aspects of their life, including a greater control in conditions potentially triggering a relapse in cocaine use. TMS offers an additional form of treatment for patients with OCD and other mental health disorders such as anxiety, depression and addiction.

TMS is safe, non-invasive and well tolerated by the vast majority of patients. Due to its high efficacy, TMS is one of the fastest growing treatments in mental health. TMS is a valid supplementary therapy for psychiatrists and psychologists who want to offer an additional form of treatment to patients with addiction and other mental health disorders.

As noted above, there is evidence to suggest that engaging patients in multiple treatment modalities can lead to improved outcomes. TMS combined with weekly counselling or psychotherapy, especially with modalities such as CBT and DBT can support patients with tools to deal with negative thoughts and destructive behaviors while learning to implement more constructive habits and behaviors.

Adding TMS treatment to your psychiatric or psychology practice is a great way to diversify your offerings to patients and future-proof your business. As well as making a real difference in people’s lives by helping them reduce the symptoms of mental health disorders, including addiction, you can expand your business and increase profitability. TMS is one of the fastest growing treatments in mental health. It is a valid supplementary therapy psychiatrists and psychologists who want to offer an additional form of treatment to patients with addiction and other mental health disorders.