Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is an alternative treatment option for drug-resistant mental illnesses, such as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). More recent clinical trials have investigated whether rTMS can also be used in the treatment of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). To synthesize current evidence on the use of rTMS to treat PTSD, a qualitative systematic review was carried out. This review focused on clinical trials that featured both a comparison group and

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... ct scales to separate PTSD symptoms from any comorbid illnesses. Presently, rTMS seems to be a relatively safe treatment for PTSD, however, it is likely no more effective than current treatments. Additionally, missing clinical trial data casts doubt on whether the present literature is representative of the true effect of rTMS on PTSD. Based on these conclusions, rTMS does not seem a suitable replacement for more popular treatments. However, rTMS is a relatively affordable and noninvasive treatment option, and may be worth continued investigation as an option for those with drug-resistant PTSD, in particular. Abbreviations: rTMS-repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation; PTSD-posttraumatic stress disorder; TMS-transcranial magnetic stimulation; DTMS-deep transcranial magnetic stimulation; MDD-major depressive disorder; DLPFC-dorsolateral prefrontal cortex