Effects of rTMS on Weight and Lipid Metabolism in Depression
Author Information
Author(s): Nakazawa Ami, Matsuda Yuki, Yamazaki Ryuichi, Taruishi Nanase, Kito Shinsuke
Primary Institution: Jikei University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
This study aimed to elucidate the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on weight, body mass index (BMI), and lipid metabolism in patients with treatment‐resistant depression (TRD).
Conclusion
rTMS treatment did not affect weight or BMI in patients with TRD but is believed to improve lipid metabolism.
Supporting Evidence
- Significant reductions in total, HDL, and LDL cholesterol levels were observed after rTMS treatment.
- The average weight decreased from 67.60 to 67.10 kg, indicating a reduction of 0.50 kg.
- The average BMI decreased from 24.09 to 23.89, indicating a reduction of 0.21.
- Patients with TRD showed an average total cholesterol level of 210.7 mg/dL, consistent with previous findings indicating poor prognosis.
Takeaway
Doctors used a special treatment called rTMS to help people with depression, and while it didn't change their weight, it helped their cholesterol levels get better.
Methodology
This retrospective observational study included patients with TRD who received rTMS treatment at the Jikei University Hospital from September 2018 to August 2021.
Potential Biases
Variations in medication treatments among the study population were not considered.
Limitations
The small sample size and single‐center design limit the generalizability of the results.
Participant Demographics
The average age was 48.76 years, with 20 men and 14 women.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p=0.24 for weight change; p=0.15 for BMI change; p=0.02 for total cholesterol, HDL, and LDL cholesterol levels.
Confidence Interval
95% CI: −0.14 to 0.56 for weight; 95% CI: −0.10 to 0.61 for BMI; 95% CI: 0.08 to 0.82 for cholesterol levels.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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