Efficacy of transcranial magnetic stimulation and fluoxetine in the treatment of postpartum depression: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND: Numerous studies have reported that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and fluoxetine is used in the treatment of postpartum depression (PPD). Currently, no study has systematically investigated the efficacy and safety of TMS and fluoxetine for the treatment of patients with PPD. Thus, this study will assess the efficacy and safety of TMS and fluoxetine for treating PPD. METHODS: Relevant studies involving TMS and fluoxetine for the treatment of patients with PPD will be comprehensively searched from the electronic databases from inception to the February 1, 2020: Cochrane Library, EMBASE, MEDILINE, CINAHL, AMED, WANGFANG, VIP, and CNKI databases. No language and publication time restrictions will be applied. RevMan 5.3 software will be utilized for data pooling, data analysis, and risk of bias evaluation. If necessary, we will also assess reporting bias using funnel plot and Egger test. RESULTS: This study will comprehensively summarize the existing evidence to assess the efficacy and safety of TMS and fluoxetine for treating PPD. CONCLUSION: The findings of this study may help to establish a better approach to treat PPD using TMS and fluoxetine. DISSEMINATION AND ETHICS: This study will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed journal. This study does not need ethical approval as no primary patient data will be used. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: INPLASY202040017.