A method of delivering electrical stimulation energy includes receiving stimulation parameters such as a selection of one or more electrodes, a stimulation amplitude, and a stimulation frequency. The stimulation parameters define, at least in part, an electrical stimulation energy deliverable as a series of electrical pulses at the stimulation frequency. The method also includes receiving a duty cycle parameter that indicates a relative number of the electrical pulses to be suppressed； and delivering the electrical stimulation energy to patient tissue through the stimulation lead. A percentage of the electrical pulses are suppressed according to the duty cycle parameter. Optionally, a distribution parameter is received that indicates how suppressed electrical pulses are to be distributed among the electrical pulses. Optionally, a suppression level parameter is received that indicates a reduction of the stimulation amplitude for each electrical pulse that is to be suppressed.
