Yes.  In 1991, our device received multiple 510(k) clearances that allow us to market the device for the treatment of depression, anxiety, insomnia and chronic pain.  Click HERE to read the FDA definition of Cranial Electrotherapy Stimulation on the FDA website.  Our technology should not be confused with Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS).

The device delivers mild electrical stimulation to the brain through sponge electrodes placed above the sideburns.  When used on the head, the device has been shown in peer-reviewed studies to stimulate the production of neurochemicals, such as serotonin, GABA and endorphins, that are responsible for improving mood and sleep and suppressing pain.  

When used on the body to treat site-specific pain (the Chronic Pain treatment kit includes body straps to secure the electrodes and a special instruction manual), the electrical stimulation influences the way peripheral nerves signal pain, reducing the sensation of pain. 

Yes.  The device does not have any contraindications with medication.  

Yes.  The device can work for patients who have not found success with medication.

Yes, you may return the device for a refund within 60 days after you receive it. We charge a $69.95 restocking fee to cover the costs of used disposables (sponges, headband, carry case) and device testing and processing.  Returned devices are tested, cleaned and used for philanthropy or sold to financially challenged patients at a steep discount.  Shipping charges are not refundable. 

The electrical current is so gentle that many patients do not feel it at all, while some may feel tingling at the sponge contact sites.  Mild optic nerve stimulation may also occur, which may produce the sensation of flashing light in the corner of the eyes - this is normal and harmless. 

Our device delivers a very mild electrical current that is approximately 1/1000th of the electricity that Electroconvulsive Therapy (also known as ECT) delivers.  ECT requires that the patient be placed under general anesthesia, whereas our device can be used by the patient at home while he/she reads a book or watches TV.  Felipe Fregni, MD, Professor of Neuroscience at Harvard Medical School, states in his December 2009 article published in The Neuroscientist that the amount of electricity our device generates (1-2 mA) is sufficient to influence the brain.  As a result, although our device delivers far less electricity than ECT, there is scientific evidence that the amount of electricity (1-2 mA) is sufficient to have an effect.  Using our device will not result in memory loss of any kind.  The only side effects our device may produce are a mild headache and/or dizziness (as well as irritation at the site of the sponge electrodes in very rare cases).  ECT is also a very expensive treatment option, often costing in excess of $30,000 for a full series of treatments.

Transcranial Magetic Stimulation, also known as TMS therapy, uses a powerful magnetic field, not gentle electrical current, to influence the brain in a series of treatments performed at a clinic.  The large apparatus used to deliver TMS is not available for home use and may be uncomfortable for many patients.  A full series of TMS treatments typically costs $8,000 - $12,000.

Our device uses patented frequencies which are completely unique to our device.  Our device is also the only CES device on the market that is allowed to deliver electrical stimulation directly to the skull via sponge electrodes - all of our competitors are only allowed by the FDA to use ear-clip adaptors or skin patches, which many doctors believe are less efficient at delivering electricity to the brain. Ear clip devices can produce headaches and vertigo, especially in patients suffering from Meunier's Disease.

Another major difference between our device and our competitors is that our device is manufactured in the USA and is used exclusively in research performed by the faculty of Harvard Medical School.  We also offer a 60-day refund policy, which is twice as long a refund period than our primary competitor.

People having cardiac pacemakers of the demand or sensing type should be aware that actions of the pacemaker may be inhibited or otherwise interfered with by this device. Please consult your physician if you have a pacemaker.

If you have metal of any kind or medical devices located inside your head (such as shrapnel or shunts), you should not use the device.

The safety of using CES devices during pregnancy has not been established, although ECT (Electro Convulsive Therapy) is cleared for use with pregnant women.   Please note that the device has been prescribed by many doctors for the treatment of postpartum depression.

Many people report positive changes during or shortly after the first 5-10 treatment sessions.  Results in treating insomnia are typically experienced faster than results in treating depression and anxiety.  The device should be used daily for 30-45 days before making a decision regarding effectiveness.

When being used to treat chronic pain (on the body), the device often reduces symptoms within a few treatment sessions.

Resting quietly is best, but one can engage in activities such as reading, watching TV, using the computer, or talking on the phone during a treatment session.

When used cranially to treat insomnia, depression and anxiety, 1 in 500 people report experiencing a mild headache upon using the device.  

One in 250 patients may experience an increase in wakefulness immediately after using the device.  If this occurs, the device should not be used within three hours of bedtime.

Although not a side effect, improper use of the device can result in minor electrode irritation - this can occur if the sponges are not thoroughly wet before use.  Please watch the instructional video and read the instruction manual thoroughly before using the device. People with very sensitive skin may find that the sponge electrodes, even when wet, cause a slight irritation to the skin - but this is very rare.

Fisher Wallace Stimulators® are sold through our website.  In the United States, the device must be recommended by a healthcare practitioner licensed in the state in which he/she practices: Doctor, Nurse, Acupuncturist, Chiropractor, Massage Therapist, Physician's Assistant, Psychologist, may all prescribe the device.  Prescriptions and recommendations from practitioners may be faxed to (800) 657 - 7362 or emailed to orders@fisherwallace.com.

More questions?  Please call or email us at (800) 692-4380 or  info@fisherwallace.com.  Voicemail and emails are responded to promptly during regular business hours, M-F, 9 am-5 pm, EST.