Neuropsychological effects of prefrontal slow rTMS in normal volunteers: A double-blind sham-controlled study

D. Koren, O. Shefer, A. Chistyakov, B. Kaplan, M. Feinsod, E. Klein

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Recent reports have suggested that repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is effective in major depression. Unlike ECT, rTMS does not involve a seizure and is associated with minimal side-effects, including cognitive difficulties. However, the effect of rTMS on cognitive functioning has not been systematically evaluated. This study was designed to examine the neuropsychological effects of slow rTMS in normal volunteers. Forty-six normal volunteers were randomly assigned to receive one session of right (N = 16) or left prefrontal (N = 15), or sham (N = 15) rTMS at 1HZ. Patients were assessed before and after stimulation by a computerized neurospychological battery. All three groups showed significant improvement over time in processing speed (reaction time) and efficiency (correct responses per unit of time). However, no time by group interaction was found for any of the neuropsychological tests. These findings suggest that a single session of slow rTMS does not interfere with neurospychological functioning in normal volunteers, supporting clinical reports of no adverse cognitive effects.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)424-430
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Clinical and Experimental Neuropsychology
Volume23
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2001
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Clinical Psychology
  • Neurology
  • Clinical Neurology

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