Therapeutic effect of high frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for post stroke depression

Abstract

Objective To explore the efficacies and onset times of high frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with fluoxetine versus fluoxetine alone for post-infarction depression. Methods Forty patients with post-infarction depression who met the inclusion criteria were selected from April, 2017 to March, 2019 in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine of our hospital. They were randomly divided into a treatment group and a control group, with 20 cases in each group. On the basis of routine treatment, the control group was treated with fluoxetine, while the treatment group with high frequency rTMS and fluoxetine. Repeated transcranial magnetic stimulation therapy was given for 4 weeks, 5 times a week. Hamilton Inhibition Scale (HAMD) and ability of daily life (ADL) were used to evaluate the depressive symptoms and life dependence before and after the treatment in the two groups. Results After the treatment, the HAMD scores of both groups decreased significantly, and decreased more in the treatment group than in the control group (all P<0.001). The ADL of the treatment group was improved from the 2nd week, while that the control group from the 4th week (P<0.001). No corresponding adverse reactions occurred in both groups during the treatment. Conclusion High frequency rTMS can improve the depressive mood, life state, and rehabilitation effect of patients with post-infarction depression in the early stage (2nd week), and is safe. Key words: TMS; Post stroke depression; Psychology