What are indications and contraindications for ECT?

What are indications and contraindications for ECT?

While there are no absolute contraindications to ECT, several relative contraindications exist. These include recent MI or stroke (generally within the last 30 days), increased intracranial pressure, active bleeding (especially from the central nervous system), retinal detachment, and unstable dentition.

What are the indications of electroconvulsive therapy?

What are the indications for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the treatment of major depressive disorder (clinical depression)?

• Need for a rapid antidepressant response.
• Failure of drug therapies.
• History of good response to ECT.
• Patient preference.
• High risk of suicide.
• High risk of medical morbidity and mortality.

What is the absolute contraindication of ECT?

ECT has no absolute contraindications. Many medical conditions place patients at an increased risk for complications and warrant closer monitoring, however.

What is the major side effect of electroconvulsive therapy?

The most common side effects of ECT on the day of treatment include nausea, headache, fatigue, confusion, and slight memory loss, which may last minutes to hours.

What are the side effects of electroconvulsive therapy?

Immediate side effects

• drowsiness (you may sleep for a while)
• confusion.
• headache.
• feeling sick.
• aching muscles.
• loss of appetite.

What are some complications of ECT?

The most common side effects of ECT on the day of treatment include nausea, headache, fatigue, confusion, and slight memory loss, which may last minutes to hours. These risks must be balanced with the consequences of ineffectively treated severe psychiatric disorders.

What are the side effects of ECT?

Why is electroconvulsive therapy controversial?

Reasons for Controversy Three reasons are given for the aversion: 1) ECT is considered old-fashioned and politically incorrect; 2) it is forced on the patient; and 3) the memory disturbances are so severe and persistent that no rational human being would undergo this procedure, no matter how well-intended.

What is the most serious side effect of electroconvulsive therapy?

Medical complications. During ECT, heart rate and blood pressure increase, and in rare cases, that can lead to serious heart problems. If you have heart problems, ECT may be more risky.