Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation (tACS) for Major Depressive Disorder

Abstract

The 21st century has brought forth major advancements in device-based treatments for psychiatric disorders such as major depressive disorder (MDD). One of the most exciting technologies on the rise in this field is transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS). The small but rapidly growing body of knowledge on tACS suggests that this wearable, low-cost, noninvasive neuromodulation method could provide a safe and effective alternative, or augmentation, to pharmacological interventions for MDD. While device parameters for treatment of MDD need refinement before this method is ready for standardized clinical use, we expect that tACS will make a significant impact on psychiatric treatment in the coming years. [ Psychiatr Ann . 2022;52(11):456–460.]