rTMS Effects Shrink in Modern Studies

A recent meta‑analysis suggests the cognitive and clinical effects attributed to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) are substantially smaller than earlier reports indicated, and that effect sizes decrease in newer, higher‑quality trials. This frames rTMS as another case of the scientific 'decline effect' where initial positive findings fade with better methods. — If true, this affects clinical treatment expectations, research funding, and how policymakers regulate neuromodulation technologies.