Transcranial direct current stimulation, or tDCS, is a method of neural stimulation that uses constant, low currents delivered to specific brain regions from electrodes on the scalp.

Researchers compared the effectiveness of an antidepressant medication and tDCS against depression, and results reported in the New England Journal of Medicine. The study included 245 patients who had received escitalopram (Lexapro) or tDCS over several months.

Patients receiving brain stimulation had a nine-point drop in depression scores; the antidepressant group had an 11-point drop. The brain stimulation group did have higher rates of side effects, including skin redness in the areas of electrode placement, ear ringing, and nervousness.

Previous research showed that brain stimulation used along with antidepressants can increase the effectiveness of the medication.