May 18, 2018 In 2008, use of repetitive TMS for the treatment of major depressive disorder was approved by the FDA. The “standard” MDD protocol involves 36 sessions, treating at the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex daily. What has not been discussed as much is what is known as the “Anxiety Protocol,” which often is used…
Details
We know that ketamine is becoming an increasingly accepted treatment for depression in the psychiatric community, but what about other mood disorders, such as anxiety? Can a medication with such pronounced effects on depression have similar effects on anxiety? Turns out, it can! While still in the most preliminary of studies, there has been scientific…
Details
IV vs. Oral vs. Intramuscular vs. Intranasal Ketamine: Why Route Matters Estelle Autissier, RN At Principium Psychiatry, we offer our patients cutting-edge treatment options for their depression, and one of our main stars is IV (intravenous) ketamine. But why does it have to be IV? “I don’t like needles, why can’t I just take this…
Details
Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treatment of major depression involves placing the coil to target a portion of the brain located just above and behind the left temple, called the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC). This region of the brain is associated with abstract reasoning, attentional control, and working memory. The prefrontal cortex is uniquely developed in humans.…
Details
Before going to your first ketamine infusion appointment, you might feel a little nervous. You might worry about the IV needle, whether or not it will work, and how you will feel during the infusion. While there is no alternative for the needle prick, we can help you understand how you will likely feel during…
Details
Depression is a heterogeneous disorder: the combination of symptoms, its etiology, and treatment responses are varied and wide-ranging. Just as each patient’s experience with depression is unique, individual experiences with transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) may differ. Through sharing the stories of three patients (whose names and details have been changed to protect their privacy), this…
Details
When choosing a method of treatment for your depression, it is important to consider timing. Antidepressants take about 4-6 weeks to work, and you usually remain on them for up to a year after your depression improves. Since antidepressant medications are usually taken daily, patients must be willing and able to be compliant to this…
Details
Ketamine and Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) are both cutting-edge treatments being used by psychiatrists and other mental health providers for depression and other mood disorders. At Principium Psychiatry, we are proud to have both of these treatments available to our patients. But what distinguishes these two treatments? Both treat medication-resistant depression, but what are the…
Details
Why Do Ketamine Infusions Work to Treat Depression Ketamine: Although this varies by patient, we usually start seeing the effects of Ketamine on mood after 2 or 3 infusions. However, for a longer lasting effect, patients usually need at least 6 infusions. The response rate for Ketamine is quite high, with 70% of patients showing…
Details
Before Starting: Often likened to a lazy boy chair, the TMS chair is cushioned and reclines such that the patient rests comfortably with his or her head supported by a headrest. The doctor, nurse or TMS technician may ask the patient to remove any metallic jewelry such as earrings, large necklaces, headwear or bracelets prior…
Details