background

Unipolar depression is one of the most prevalent psychiatric disorders and has a high impact at individual and societal level. Commonly used treatments such as antidepressants and psychotherapy are often not effective.
aimTo determine the efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and direct current stimulation (tDCS) as minimally invasive forms of treatment for unipolar depression.
methodWe searched the literature.
resultsrTMS is effective in treating unipolar depression and is comparable to existing forms of medication and behavioural therapy. The effects of tDCS are promising, but more research is needed.
conclusionrTMS is a useful addition to the existing arsenal of treatment for unipolar depression.