EXOMIND & rTMS Research Library
A 2025 meta-analysis examined randomized trials of rTMS for generalized anxiety disorder and found greater symptom improvement when rTMS was added to medication.
Why this finding matters
Persistent anxiety can affect sleep, concentration, physical tension and daily functioning. Across 29 randomized trials, adding rTMS was associated with greater symptom improvement than comparison conditions, making individualized screening worth considering when standard care has not been enough.
Research Spotlight
29 randomized trials reviewed
- −3.38 points vs medication alone
- −2.80 points vs sham + medication
- No serious adverse events reported
- High heterogeneity
What the evidence suggests
Across 29 eligible trials, rTMS plus medication reduced Hamilton Anxiety Scale scores more than medication alone by a mean 3.38 points. Compared with sham rTMS plus medication, active rTMS plus medication improved scores by a mean 2.80 points.
What this could mean for you
The findings justify an informed clinical conversation about rTMS for anxiety when standard approaches have not been sufficient or when mood symptoms overlap. Anxiety remains a condition requiring individualized assessment and established psychological care.
A careful, individualized next step
Research informs—but does not replace—individual clinical judgment. We review symptoms, diagnosis, previous treatment, medications, contraindications, functional goals and the strength of evidence for the proposed protocol. A consultation does not guarantee that treatment will be recommended.
Is an EXOMIND consultation appropriate?
We will consider diagnosis, medications, previous therapies, risks and goals before discussing whether a brain-stimulation pathway is clinically reasonable.
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Study citation
Jiang et al. Effectiveness and safety of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for generalized anxiety disorder. PMID: 40974751 · DOI: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2025.08.015.
View the original record on PubMed
Educational information only. Findings from pooled research do not predict individual outcomes and may involve devices or protocols that differ from EXOMIND.