VGR Accelerated TMS Treatment for Depression

Intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS), a variant of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), is a well documented method for treatment of depression. The aim of the study is to assess the effect of an accelerated iTBS protocol compared to a routine iTBS protocol. In the accelerated protocol patients will receive 1200 pulses per session (2 sessions per day, 15 treatment days) and in the routine protocol patients will receive 600 pulses per session (1 session per day, 30 treatment days). Participants (n = 146) will be recruited among patients referred to iTBS and randomized to treatment. Participants will be assessed by a psychiatrist, or a resident psychiatrist, prior to treatment to assure that they fulfill all inclusion criteria and non of the exclusion criteria. A psychiatrist, or a resident psychiatrist, will assess depressive symptoms 3 and 6 weeks after first day of treatment. Patients will complete self-rating questionnaires during screening, weekly for 6 weeks starting from the first day of treatment, and 6 months after end of treatment.