Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) treatment is increasingly being used in the management of patients with depression. Nevertheless, considerable ignorance still exists about the treatment in general psychiatric practice. This concise clinical guide will serve as a reference and practical tool for clinicians working with or learning about this treatment technique. The opening chapters provide basic information on the history and development of rTMS treatment and its mechanism of action. Use of the treatment in depression is then addressed in detail, with explanation of the evidence base and discussion of a variety of clinical issues. Side-effects of treatment are explored, and careful consideration is given to the establishment of rTMS treatment programs and the training of clinicians. The final chapters will provide a brief overview of potential rTMS applications in other psychiatric conditions and some background on related treatments.

TMS and rTMS: Basic Principles

History of TMS and rTMS
Mechanism of action: Plasticity, Inhibition, Molecular (i.e., BDNF)
Safety Considerations of rTMS in Depression
Acute rTMS treatment for MDD - evidence base
Acute rTMS treatment for MDD - clinical indications / patient selection
Identification and Management of Side Effects
Maintenance rTMS Treatment in MDD
Practical issues: equipment, treatment program set up, certification, patient information
Resources - include checklists, safety screens, symptom inventory etc
rTMS applications in other disorders
Novel rTMS treatment approaches in MDD.