Safety first
At NEUCOA we follow strict protocols and conservative stimulation settings. Patients are screened thoroughly and monitored during treatment to minimize risks.

Absolute contraindications (these generally exclude cortical MeRT®)

• Pacemaker, defibrillator, or implanted electrical devices

• Vagal nerve stimulator, cochlear implant, deep brain stimulator

• Non-titanium cranial metal fragments (e.g., ferrous shrapnel)

• Aneurysm clips/coils or other disqualifying vascular implants

• Pregnancy or breastfeeding

• Primary or metastatic CNS tumor (unless palliative)

• Certain implanted devices depending on placement

Relative contraindications (evaluated case-by-case)

• History of seizure or seizure disorder

• Bipolar I/II, psychotic or schizoaffective disorders

• Active substance abuse or inability to safely adjust medications if needed

• Certain spinal or ferrous implants — these require individual review

Peripheral device contraindications
Examples: some cochlear implants, pain pumps, IVC filters, and other implanted hardware — assessment depends on device type and location.

Common side effects

• Mild scalp/tension headache (short-lived)

• Brief increased agitation, hyperactivity, or euphoria in some patients

• Rare risk of seizure — minimized by screening, conservative settings, and continuous monitoring

Monitoring & emergency procedures
We monitor patients throughout treatment and maintain protocols to respond to adverse events. If clinical worsening or suicidality emerges, treatment is paused and clinical support arranged.

What to disclose at intake
Please list all implants, electrical devices, recent head injuries, seizure history, and all medications so we can evaluate safety.