Addiction treatment is a complex and challenging journey that requires innovative approaches to achieve lasting recovery. One such promising innovation is Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, which has been gaining attention for its potential role in treating various forms of addiction. At East Side Recovery, we incorporate TMS therapy into our holistic treatment programs, offering a new avenue of hope for those struggling with substance use disorders.

What is TMS Therapy?

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive procedure that uses magnetic fields to stimulate specific areas of the brain, particularly those involved in mood regulation and addiction. By targeting these brain regions, TMS can help reduce cravings, alleviate withdrawal symptoms, and improve overall mental health. The procedure is painless, has minimal side effects, and does not require anaesthesia, making it an appealing option for many patients.

The Science Behind TMS in Addiction Treatment

Cocaine Addiction

Research has demonstrated the effectiveness of TMS in treating cocaine addiction. A study by Bolloni et al. (2018) found that TMS significantly reduces cravings and drug-seeking behaviour in individuals addicted to cocaine. The study highlights the potential of TMS as a valuable tool for those who have not found success with conventional treatments, offering a new pathway to recovery for individuals resistant to other forms of intervention.

Alcohol Use Disorder

TMS therapy has also shown promise in treating alcohol dependence. Höppner et al. (2011) conducted a study that examined the use of repetitive TMS (rTMS) for alcohol dependence. The results indicated that rTMS could reduce alcohol cravings and consumption, making it a viable option for individuals struggling with alcohol use disorder, particularly those who have not responded to traditional treatment methods. This study underscores the potential of TMS as part of a comprehensive approach to alcohol addiction recovery.

Smoking Cessation

TMS has also been explored as a treatment for nicotine addiction. A pivotal multicenter double-blind randomised controlled trial by Zangen et al. (2021) demonstrated that TMS is effective in aiding smoking cessation. The study showed that participants who received TMS experienced a significant reduction in the urge to smoke and were more likely to quit smoking compared to those who received a placebo. This underscores the versatility of TMS in addressing different forms of substance use disorders.

Opioid Addiction

TMS therapy is also being investigated for its potential role in treating opioid addiction. An evidence brief by Anderson (no date) explores the use of TMS for opioid addiction and other conditions such as chronic pain and PTSD. The brief suggests that TMS may help reduce opioid cravings and support recovery, particularly in individuals who have not responded to other treatments. This highlights the potential of TMS as a valuable component in the multifaceted treatment of opioid addiction.

Why TMS Therapy is a Game Changer

TMS therapy offers several advantages over traditional addiction treatments. Its non-invasive nature means that patients can undergo treatment without the need for surgery or anaesthesia, and it has minimal side effects compared to medications. Each session is relatively short, lasting between 15 to 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules. Most importantly, TMS therapy provides long-lasting results, with many patients experiencing significant improvements in their symptoms after completing a course of treatment.

At East Side Recovery, we are committed to offering cutting-edge therapies like TMS as part of our comprehensive addiction treatment programs. By integrating TMS therapy into our holistic approach, we aim to provide our clients with the best possible chance at achieving and maintaining sobriety.

If you or a loved one is struggling with addiction, TMS therapy could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Contact East Side Recovery today to learn more about how TMS can play a crucial role in your journey to recovery.

References:

1. Bolloni, C., Badas, P., Corona, G., & Diana, M. (2018). Transcranial magnetic stimulation for the treatment of cocaine addiction: evidence to date. Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation, 9, 11–21. https://doi.org/10.2147/SAR.S161206
2. Höppner, J., Broese, T., Wendler, L., Berger, C., & Thome, J. (2011). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) for treatment of alcohol dependence. The World Journal of Biological Psychiatry, 12 Suppl 1, 57–62. https://doi.org/10.3109/15622975.2011.598383
3. Zangen, A., Moshe, H., Martinez, D., Barnea-Ygael, N., Vapnik, T., Bystritsky, A., Duffy, W., et al. (2021). Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for smoking cessation: a pivotal multicenter double-blind randomized controlled trial. World Psychiatry, 20(3), 397–404. https://doi.org/10.1002/wps.20905

Anderson, J. (no date) Evidence brief: Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for chronic pain, PTSD, TBI, opioid addiction, and sexual trauma. National Center for Biotechnology Information. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK566938/