Effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) for treatment-resistant depression (TRD) is not differentially modified by age, a recent study found. Based on these naturalistic data, age alone should not be considered a contraindication or poor prognostic indicator of the antidepressant efficacy of TMS. Data were retrospectively collected and pooled for adults with TRD (n=231; n=75 aged ≥60 years and n= 156 <60 years) who underwent an acute course of outpatient TMS therapy at 2 outpatient clinics. Self-report depression scales were administered at baseline and end of acute treatment. Change on continuous measures and categorical outcomes were compared across older vs younger patients. Researchers found:

• Both age groups showed significant improvements in depression symptoms.
• Response and remission rates did not differ between groups.
• Age group was not a significant predictor of change in depression severity, nor of clinical response or remission, in a model controlling for other predictors.