TMS Side Effects: What to Expect

The most common side effects of TMS are mild and include scalp discomfort at the treatment site and occasional headaches that typically resolve within the first few sessions.

Unlike antidepressant medications, TMS does not cause systemic side effects such as weight gain, sexual dysfunction, nausea, insomnia, dry mouth, or emotional blunting. This makes it an attractive option for patients concerned about medication-related side effects.

Rare but serious risks include seizures, which occur in approximately 0.001% of treatments. TMS providers screen patients carefully to identify contraindications such as epilepsy, brain tumors, or metallic implants near the head. Treatment is always administered under physician supervision.