Efficacy of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation for smoking cessation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract Background Tobacco use disorder remains one of the most prevalent substances use disorders globally, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. While pharmacological and behavioral interventions have been effective, relapse rates remain high, necessitating the exploration of nov...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
SpringerOpen
2025-07-01
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| Series: | Middle East Current Psychiatry |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://doi.org/10.1186/s43045-025-00558-2 |
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| Summary: | Abstract Background Tobacco use disorder remains one of the most prevalent substances use disorders globally, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. While pharmacological and behavioral interventions have been effective, relapse rates remain high, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. One such approach is repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has shown promise in various neuropsychiatric disorders, including medication-resistant conditions. Objective To evaluate the efficacy of rTMS in smoking cessation, its impact on abstinence rates, nicotine dependence, and craving. Methods We conducted a comprehensive search across multiple databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, PsycINFO, and Clinicaltrials.gov) from inception to August 2024. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating rTMS as a treatment for smoking cessation, with outcomes including nicotine dependence, craving, abstinence, and cigarette consumption. Results We included 17 RCTs involving 859 participants were included in this review. The pooled analysis revealed a statistically insignificant reduction in nicotine dependence based on the Fagerström Test (MD = -0.40, 95% CI [-1.16 to 0.35], P = 0.30). rTMS demonstrated significant reductions in craving, as measured by the Tobacco Questionnaire for Smoking Urges (MD = -10.89, 95% CI [-12.94 to -8.85], P < 0.00001). Self-reported abstinence showed a significant improvement (RR = 1.89, 95% CI [1.12 to 3.19], P = 0.02). However, no significant effects were observed for self-reported cigarette consumption (MD = -2.74, 95% CI [-7.26 to 1.79], P = 0.24) or the Visual Analog Scale for craving (SMD = -0.29, 95% CI [-0.67 to 0.10], P = 0.14). Conclusion rTMS shows promising potential as an adjunctive treatment for smoking cessation by reducing nicotine dependence (to some extent) and improving abstinence rates. However, its effectiveness is not uniform across all smoking-related outcomes. With further research, rTMS could become a valuable component of comprehensive smoking cessation strategies. |
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| ISSN: | 2090-5416 |