How can depression be treated without medication?
In Germany, approximately 8.2% of the population suffer from depression [1]. That corresponds to about 5.3 million people.
The numbers are even higher among employees: approximately 20% or one in five employees have been diagnosed with depression and 15% of employees have experienced a suicide attempt among colleagues. [2].
The most common treatment is antidepressants, which are used to restore balance to neurotransmitters (e.g., serotonin) in the brain. Among these medications, there are a variety of different active ingredients with varying levels of effectiveness and side effects, the most common of which are fatigue and weight gain.
A survey by the German Depression Help showed that approximately 62% of the patients receive medication and 48% receive psychotherapy for depression, while 35% receive a combination of both. [3].
That treatment can be carried out without medication is shown by an article by ARD about the device from tVNS Technologiesthat stimulates the vagus nerve via electrical impulses, known as transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS). Patients regain a significant amount of quality of life because the method is highly effective, completely avoids the use of antidepressants, requires no surgery, and has only minimal side effects.
What is the vagus nerve?
Of the 12 cranial nerves in humans, the vagus nerve is the longest and connects almost all organs to the brain. It is also the largest nerve of the parasympathetic nervous system, also known as the rest and recovery nerve, as it is responsible for recovery, metabolism, and physical reserves.
Transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation utilizes the possibility that a branch of the vagus nerve runs through the ear and can be electrically stimulated. This, in turn, leads to a change in the release of neurotransmitters in the brain and ultimately improves the mood of the affected person.
By stimulating the vagus nerve, a patient can specifically and independently influence and improve his or her mood.
The tVNSⓇ-Device
By electrically stimulating the vagus nerve, small electrical impulses are sent to the brain stem.
Since the vagus nerve branch also runs at the ear (ramus auricularis), it is possible with the tVNSⓇThe device is designed to provide a non-invasive treatment. Using an electrode similar to a headset, the device can be worn easily and comfortably for extended periods without being particularly noticeable.
The device is particularly beneficial for patients who cannot be treated with medication for their depression or who simply want to avoid the side effects. tVNS is also being used for other conditions such as long-term COVID, epilepsy, or severe migraines.Ⓡ used very successfully and with almost no side effects.
At MEDtech we were able to assist engineers in the development of the software and hardware of tVNSⓇ We supported the development until series production and manufactured the devices in our own production facilities. As medical technology engineers, we are proud to have been able to co-develop this device and are delighted to be able to restore some of the quality of life to those affected.
If you want to know more or tVNSⓇ If you want to order, you should visit the website of t-vns.com stop by.
Medical electrical stimulation
Is your company working on medical devices using electrical stimulation, or do you have an idea and need support? Contact us; we'll be happy to support you from development and certification to production of your product.
References and links
[1] https://www.aok-bv.de/imperia/md/aokbv/presse/pressemitteilungen/archiv/2018/07_faktenblatt_depressionen.pdf
[2] https://www.deutsche-depressionshilfe.de/forschungszentrum/deutschland-barometer-depression