Comparison of the clinical efficacy, safety and EEG functional connectivity changes between 18-Hz rTMS and iTBS of accelerated dTMS treatment for major depressive disorder: a randomized controlled trial.
Mol PsychiatryMay 11, 2026 (epub)
Lulu Yang, Haiyue Dai, Mingjie Zhu et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial compared the efficacy and safety of 18-Hz rTMS and iTBS of accelerated dTMS in 73 patients with major depressive disorder (MDD). Both dTMS protocols significantly reduced Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD) scores, with the iTBS-dTMS group showing a decrease from 22.5 ± 3.7 to 8.2 ± 4.1, and a treatment response rate of 85.7%.
Key findings
- iTBS-dTMS group had a HAMD score reduction from 22.5 ± 3.7 to 8.2 ± 4.1.
- rTMS-dTMS group showed a HAMD score decrease from 21.3 ± 2.9 to 8.0 ± 3.8.
- Treatment response rate was 85.7% for iTBS-dTMS compared to 76.9% for rTMS-dTMS.
- Remission rates were 50.0% for iTBS-dTMS and 42.3% for rTMS-dTMS, significantly higher than 10.5% for the drug group.
Why it matters
The study highlights the potential of accelerated dTMS protocols, particularly iTBS, as effective treatments for MDD, offering improved response and remission rates compared to traditional pharmacotherapy. This could enhance treatment options for patients with depression.