Transcranial Direct-Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a form of brain stimulation that delivers a continuous low-amplitude electrical current to a specified cortical region using scalp electrodes. Stimulation over the cortex increases cortical excitability through depolarization of neuronal membrane potential. By contrast, cathodal stimulation decreases cortical excitability through hyperpolarization of the membrane potential.
Neurostimulation | Overall Recommendation | Acute Efficacy | Maintenance Efficacy | Safety and Tolerability |
---|---|---|---|---|
rTMS | • First line (for patients who have failed at least 1 antidepressant) | Level 1 | Level 3 | Level 1 |
ECT | • Second line • First line in some acute clinical situations | Level 1 | Level 1 | Level 1 |
tDCS | • Third line | Level 2 | Level 3 | Level 2 |
Vagal Nerve Stimulation (VNS) | • Third line | Level 3 | Level 2 | Level 2 |
DBS | • Investigational | Level 3 | Level 3 | Level 3 |
MST | • Investigational | Level 3 | Not known | Level 3 |