Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a common neurodevelopmental condition that affects children, adolescents, and often persists into adulthood. It is characterized by symptoms such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity, leading to difficulties in academic performance, relationships, and daily functioning. While stimulant medications and behavioral therapy are the mainstays of treatment, up to 30% of individuals do not respond adequately or experience intolerable side effects. This has prompted growing interest in non-invasive brain stimulation techniques like Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) as a novel therapeutic option.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation therapy that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate targeted brain regions.
In Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) typically targets the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (rDLPFC)—a brain area involved in attention regulation, executive function, and impulse control. High-frequency rTMS (≥10 Hz) over the rDLPFC can increase neural activity in underactive regions associated with inattention, while low-frequency stimulation (1 Hz) has been explored for its potential to reduce cortical hyperexcitability and improve behavioral control, especially in children.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is thought to enhance dopamine release and promote neuroplasticity, both of which are crucial for improving cognitive function in ADHD.
Recent randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses support the potential of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) in treating core symptoms of ADHD:
- Inattention Improvement: Multiple studies demonstrate significant reductions in inattention symptoms following rTMS, with benefits lasting at least 1 month after treatment.
- Hyperactivity and Impulsivity: Although the effect is less consistent, some patients also experience improvement in hyperactivity/impulsivity.
- Cognitive Enhancement: rTMS appears to improve sustained attention and processing speed, as shown through computerized neurocognitive testing.
- Target Specificity Matters: rTMS targeting the right PFC is more effective than the left in alleviating ADHD symptoms, especially inattention.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) is considered very safe. Most common side effects are mild headaches or scalp discomfort, which are temporary and easily managed.
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation may be particularly suitable for:
- Patients with treatment-resistant ADHD
- Individuals who cannot tolerate stimulant medications
- Children or adults with predominant inattention symptoms
- People seeking non-pharmacological, brain-targeted interventions
Treatment involves:
- Daily sessions (20–30 minutes) for 2–3 weeks
- Outpatient setting, with patients able to resume daily activities immediately
- Maintenance sessions can be added based on individual response
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) represents a safe, effective, and well-tolerated treatment for ADHD, especially in those with inattention and poor response to conventional therapies. By targeting specific brain networks involved in attention and executive control, Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) offers new hope in personalized Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) care.