transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

Overview of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) is a neuromodulation treatment that uses a constant, low electrical current to stimulate specific areas of the brain. Delivered via electrodes placed on the scalp, tDCS is a non-invasive and effective method for treating various neurological and psychiatric conditions. AIM neuromodulation is able to offer this treatment in collaboration with Flow neuroscience. The Flow tDCS device is approved for at-home depression treatment in the EU and UK, offering a convenient and accessible solution for those seeking relief from depressive symptoms.

How tDCS Works

tDCS works by targeting specific brain regions with mild electrical currents. The Flow tDCS device delivers approximately 2 mA of electrical current to the brain. This gentle stimulation does not directly cause neurons to fire but instead encourages them to reach their action potential. Over time, this increased neuronal activity can enhance brain function in the targeted areas.

Unlike other neuromodulation techniques such as Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) or Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT), tDCS provides sub-threshold stimulation. This makes tDCS safe for home use with minimal side effects.

How the flow tDCS Device work?

Ther Flow tDCS device is a non-invasive treatment designed to alleviate depressive symptoms by stimulating the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), a brain region linked to mood regulation, sleep, and motivation. The device sends gentle electrical impulses to this area, restoring activity and reducing depression. Typically, the headset is used 3-5 times a week, with each session lasting 30 minutes. Flow's software allows clinicians to monitor adherence and track symptom changes over time and provides behavioural therapy alongside tDCS treatment.

Benefits of Flow tDCS treatment

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Non-invasive treatment alternative to medication to treat depression: Combines tDCS and behavioural therapy with clinical monitoring and supervision by consultant psychiatrist through AIM neuromodulation.


Enhanced response: Clinical improvement can be seen within three weeks. tDCS can augment other treatments for depression including medication and talking therapies for patients who have had a partial response to these treatments. tDCS can be used with rTMS both as a primer optimising rTMS treatment response and as a maintenance in patients who have responded well to rTMS.



At-home convenience: Flow neurosciences’ tDCS device is approved for at-home use in the UK and EU allowing access to a neuromodulation that was previously only available in clinic.


Evidence Supporting tDCS

There are several large, high-quality randomised control (RCT) trials showing a definite effect for tDCS in improving depression.


A 2023 RCT by the University of East London and Kings College showed that 57% of participants using the Flow tDCS device achieved remission within 10 weeks with no serious side effects.



Flow neuroscience report that data from their tDCS device app of 4,000 users showed that 46% of users went into remission by week 10.


Safety

Flow's tDCS device is recognised for its safety and efficacy and has:

CE-marked Class IIa medical device: Approved for use in the EU and UK.

FDA Breakthrough Device Designation: Acknowledged for innovative at-home depression treatment.


Side Effects

Side effects from tDCS are minimal and serious side effects are extremely rare. Flow reports that less than 5% of its users have side effects. These include:

  • Headache 
  • Skin irritation
  • Tinnitus
  • Worsening of symptoms


Cautions

Patients with the following conditions should take extra precautions and consult their Doctor before using tDCS:

  • Pregnancy
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Skull not intact
  • Cranial or intracranial implants
  • Epilepsy or seizures
  • Chronic skin conditions on the forehead
  • Bipolar disorder


Using The Flow tDCS Device

Flow neuroscience has enabled tDCS treatment to be used at home improving access and reducing the cost of this treatment. The device and app are well designed and easy to use and combine tDCS with behavioural therapy courses available via the app.

Step 1

Initial consultation with Consultant Psychiatrist – Book Here

Step 2

Purchase or rent a Flow tDCS device through AIM neuromodulation which includes help setting up the device and monitoring and supervision with a Consultant Psychiatrist

Step 3

Start Treatment

Initial Phase

Weeks 1-3: 5 sessions per week, each lasting 30 minutes.





Step 4

Maintenance Phase
Weeks 4+: 1-2 sessions per week, each lasting 30 minutes.

Long-term: Continue for 6-12 months if effective after 10 weeks.





BOOK NOW

An initial no obligation discussion with a Consultant Psychiatrist is free

Pricing

Flow tDCS machine rental

Includes Flow tDCS device and app, help with setting up plus monthly supervision and monitoring with Consultant Psychiatrist.

£79/month

Flow tDCS machine purchase

Includes Flow tDCS device and app, help with setting up plus 2 months of supervision and monitoring with Consultant Psychiatrist.

£399

Ongoing supervision and monitoring of tDCS treatment

depending on time and frequency – please discuss further with Consultant Psychiatrist


£Variable

"Really well explained process and I had all the information before I made the decision and they listened to what I wanted involving timings. I felt very comfortable throughout.”

Frequently Asked Questions


Got a question? We’re here to help.

  • What Does Using The Flow tDCS Device Feel Like?

    There is often a mild tingling, itching, or stinging feeling on the forehead during the first few minutes of a session. These sensations usually diminish over time.

  • Duration of Use?

    The initial treatment lasts 10 weeks. If beneficial, it is recommended to continue for an additional 6-12 months to maintain progress and prevent relapse.

  • Using tDCS with Antidepressants?

    tDCS is safe to use alongside antidepressants.

  • Patients with Other Medical Conditions?

    Patients with conditions such as epilepsy, cranial implants, or skin conditions on the forehead should consult their doctor before using tDCS.

  • Potential Side Effects?

    Less than 5% of users report side effects, including headache, skin irritation, and mild skin burns. Serious side effects are extremely rare.

  • Cautions?

    Patients with the following conditions should use Flow with caution and consult their Doctor:

    • Pregnancy
    • Suicidal thoughts
    • Cranial or intracranial implants
    • Epilepsy or seizures
    • Chronic skin conditions on the forehead
    • Bipolar disorder

Learn More

Please book a free, initial, no obligation, consultation with a Consultant Psychiatrist 

BOOK NOW

visit www.flowneuroscience.com to learn more about how

Flow and tDCS can help you manage depression and improve your quality of life.