TMS for Anxious Depression

What “anxious depression” means

Anxious depression refers to major depressive disorder accompanied by prominent anxiety symptoms. It is a common presentation and is associated with a lower response to some antidepressants. TMS is FDA-cleared to decrease anxiety symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder. The clearance applies to anxiety symptoms occurring within depression, not to anxiety disorders on their own.

What TMS for anxious depression treats

TMS for anxious depression targets the depression and the associated anxiety symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder. It is not cleared as a standalone treatment for generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or other anxiety disorders.

What the evidence shows

• The FDA cleared high-frequency stimulation of the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex to reduce comorbid anxiety symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder.
• Real-world data report reductions in anxiety symptoms in a majority of treated patients with MDD and comorbid anxiety.
• As with TMS for depression generally, response varies between individuals.

Who TMS for anxious depression is for

• Adults with major depressive disorder that includes prominent anxiety symptoms.
• Patients who have not responded adequately to antidepressant medication.

A diagnostic evaluation confirms the diagnosis and whether TMS is appropriate.

TMS for anxious depression at Exxceed Wellness

We provide TMS for adults with treatment-resistant depression, including depression with comorbid anxiety, in Hayward, CA. Our device is FDA-cleared for this use. See our TMS program, our guide to treatment-resistant depression, or contact us.

Frequently asked questions

Is TMS approved for anxiety?

TMS is cleared to reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder. It is not cleared for anxiety disorders on their own, such as generalized anxiety disorder.

Does TMS help both depression and anxiety?

In anxious depression, TMS targets the depression, and the clearance and real-world data indicate reductions in the associated anxiety symptoms. Response varies between individuals.

Does insurance cover TMS for anxious depression?

Coverage follows the plan’s rules for TMS in treatment-resistant depression. See our TMS cost guide.

References

1. U.S. FDA milestones for TMS devices, including the anxious-depression clearance: PMC.
2. TMS outcomes in treatment-resistant depression with comorbid anxiety: PMC.
3. Perera T, et al. The Clinical TMS Society Consensus Review and Treatment Recommendations for TMS Therapy for Major Depressive Disorder. Brain Stimulation. 2016;9(3):336-346: PubMed.

Educational information only, not medical advice. TMS is FDA-cleared to reduce anxiety symptoms in adults with major depressive disorder, not for anxiety disorders on their own. Outcomes vary, and candidacy is determined by a qualified clinician. Consult a clinician about your specific situation.