Transcranial magnetic stimulation-induced switch into mania: A report of two cases

Background: Transcranial magnetic stimulation is a novel, experimental procedure in the treatment of psychiatric disorders, most notably mood disorders. Transcranial magnetic stimulation is currently being widely studied in other applications, and its efficacies and potential side effects are being investigated. Methods: Transcranial magnetic stimulation was administered five times a week for 4 weeks. Results: In this report, a manic episode followed treat ment with transcranial magnetic stimulation in two patients. Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware that, like with other antidepressive treatments, a switch into mania might complicate treatment with transcranial magnetic stimulation in bipolar patients. Biol Psychiatry 2001;49:468-470 (C) 2001 Society of Biological Psychiatry.