Author(s): Kerry Brown
Smoking is considered the leading cause of preventable death and chronic disease worldwide. Despite significant funding towards understanding the neurobiology of addiction and options for smoking cessation treatment, tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year.1 Extensive research and neuroimaging studies have helped identify the pathway and mechanisms of dependency, craving, and withdrawal, which allows for targeted treatment options. Current guidelines recommend a combination of pharmacological treatment with behavioral counseling for optimal success.2 However, research continues for innovative interventions. One option being pioneered for addiction treatment is use of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy. When targeting appropriate brain structures, TMS has been shown to neuromodulate the brain pathway associated with addiction. This review of recent literature and studies assesses the ability of TMS to reduce cravings, cigarette consumption, and abstinence.
