As outlined on the slide, there is some evidence suggesting that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is useful in the treatment of depression associated with bipolar disorder.2,3 However, there are fewer studies of TMS in bipolar mania.1 One systematic review identified several studies of TMS in bipolar disorder, including two studies comparing TMS with sham therapy in bipolar mania and some open-label studies (as well as some less conclusive data), which taken together suggest a possible treatment effect in favour of TMS.1 However, more studies are needed to fully understand how TMS can best help people with bipolar disorder.1
References:
1. Hett D, Marwaha S. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the treatment of bipolar disorder. Ther Adv Psychopharmacol 2020; 10: 2045125320973790.
2. Tee MMK, Au CH. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized sham-controlled trials of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for bipolar disorder. Psychiatr Q 2020; 91 (4): 1225–1247.
3. Nguyen TD, Hieronymus F, Lorentzen R, et al. The efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for bipolar depression: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Affect Disord 2021; 279: 250–255.
4. Mutz J. Brain stimulation treatment for bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disord 2023; 25 (1): 9–24.