MALVERN, PA — Neuronetics, Inc. (NASDAQ: STIM) announced new real-world data demonstrating that its NeuroStar transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy delivers meaningful improvement in depression symptoms among adolescents and young adults. The findings, published in JAACAP Open, align with previously documented results in adult populations and highlight the potential of TMS as a safe, effective treatment option for younger patients.
The study, based on data from the NeuroStar TrakStar Clinical Database—the largest depression outcomes database in the world—included 1,283 patients aged 12 to 21. Of those, 70% showed clinically meaningful improvement based on PHQ-9 scores, while fewer than 1% experienced symptom worsening. Outcomes for younger patients mirrored those seen in adults, reinforcing the importance of completing a full treatment course.
Neuronetics President and CEO Keith J. Sullivan emphasized the company’s expanding role in adolescent mental health care, noting a more than one-third increase in adolescent patients since NeuroStar received FDA clearance in March 2024 for use in individuals aged 15 to 21 with major depressive disorder.
“These findings reinforce the unique leadership role Neuronetics plays both as an innovator and a resource for clinical research with our proprietary TrakStar dataset,” said Sullivan. “We will continue to work with providers and payers to expand access to NeuroStar TMS for appropriate young patients.”
The study arrives at a critical time, as depression among youth continues to rise. Nearly one in five adolescents experiences a major depressive episode, yet treatment options remain limited. Currently, only two medications are FDA-approved for adolescent depression—both with significant safety concerns.
Todd M. Hutton, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Southern California TMS Center, called the results “undeniable,” adding that NeuroStar TMS has the potential to address a major treatment gap. “There is a huge opportunity for NeuroStar TMS to provide a safe and effective option to these patients at a critical time in their lives and development,” Hutton said.
Neuronetics plans to build on these findings by continuing to expand access, deepen clinical evidence, and support healthcare providers in treating major depressive disorder in young people.
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