Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

What is Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)?

tDCS is a non-invasive treatment that passes a low intensity electrical current through the brain, by using electrode pads placed on the scalp. It acts by altering the excitability of neurons in your brain.

Your doctor may recommend tDCS if you are experiencing conditions such as depression or Fibromyalgia (a chronic disorder that causes pain over the body, accompanied by fatigue and sleep issues).

• Not required to fast
• Please inform your doctor prior to the treatment if you have:
  • History of allergy or reaction to medications, drugs, or food
  • History of bleeding or clotting disorders 
  • Blood-thinning medications or supplements (e.g. aspirin, clopidogrel, warfarin, rivaroxaban, cordyceps, ginkgo biloba, lingzhi) 
  • History of seizures or epilepsy
• tDCS is administered when you are awake and does not require anaesthesia

The test is done by a neurotechnologist and will be conducted daily (on weekdays; Monday – Friday), each session lasts approximately 20–30 minutes.

• You will be seated on a chair and remain fully conscious throughout the treatment 
• Soft stimulation pads will be placed at defined locations on your scalp
• A low intensity electrical current is delivered through these pads 
• You may feel mild tingling, itching, or stinging sensations during stimulation
• The number of sessions depends on your condition and response to treatment
• After the session, you may leave the hospital and proceed with your usual activity
• If you feel unwell before your next session, please contact your designated neurodiagnostic laboratory for advice.

Frequently Asked Questions about tDCS

Is the test safe?

Yes, tDCS is generally considered safe and well-tolerated.

Possible side effects include:

• Itching / tingling / stinging sensations or reddening of the skin at the electrode sites
• Mild nausea or headache 
• Skin burns are rare and do not normally occur if tDCS is used within the prescribed treatment method and duration
• The neurotechnologist will be with you throughout the process. If you feel unwell, please inform the neurologist or the electrophysiologist.

Side effects are usually mild and brief, typically resolving after stimulation ends. Symptomatic relief (e.g. pain killers for headache) may be taken for side effects if needed. There is currently no evidence of long-term adverse effects. 

Can I use Medisave to pay for this test?

This test may be claimable under:

• Flexi-MediSave for Seniors; or
• Outpatient scans for diagnosis or treatment of a medical condition. 

Please refer to the Ministry of Health's Outpatient Care page for the latest claim limits and eligibility criteria.

 
The information is correct as of July 2026 and subject to revisions without notice.