Posted by Antrock on September 29, 1999, at 11:25:09
I first must say that this is the most intelligent and informative forum on depression that I have come across. That said, I would like to make a comment on Transcranial-Magnetic-Stimulation(TMS). I am currently partaking in a TMS study in Boston, and in my 2nd week. It's a blind study and I'm not supposed to know if I'm getting the real stimulation or sham. I think it's safe to say I'm getting the real deal because I haven't felt this good in 10 years. I cannot even remember the last time I have had this kind of energy, after suffering relentless fatigue for so many years.
Throughout the years I've tried many different meds and never had a positive reponse. Parnate did help to a point, but not nearly as much as this treatment. The effects from TMS are not believed to be permanent and future maintanance treatments might be needed to sustain relief, but for now I am very happy with my decision.
I don't want to get carried away and say this has been 100% effective, I still don't have much sexual drive or a strong ability to experience pleasure, but I feel this will also improve. I still have 3 days left of treatments and hope my response gets even better.
I also would like to mention that I didn't take entering this study lightly, and read everything I could get my hands on regarding the proccess as well as the reported side effects, safety,etc.
I hope this gives someone who hasn't responded to meds some hope to hang in, as hard as it is. As I said, I've lost 10 productive years(21-31)of my life to this affliction and know all to well about hopelessness. There will be a "cure" or improved treatment for this horrible illness in the near future, and whether TMS is it or not, major advances are being made.
I'm greatful I came across this website, and hope my 2 cents can help someone in a similar situation.Antrock
poster:Antrock
thread:12251
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/19990914/msgs/12251.html