Low-Frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Inferior to Electroconvulsive Therapy in Treating Depression

Abstract

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation was significantly less effective than ECT, but ECT had more adverse effects on cognitive function. The outcome does not point to right frontal low-frequency rTMS using the present stimulus design as a first-line substitute for ECT, but rather as a treatment option for patients with depression who are intolerant to other types of treatment or not accepting ECT.