Can ECT be used on children?

The lack of severe adverse effects both in previously reported cases and in our patient suggests that ECT is safe to use in children and adolescents.

Why is electroshock therapy on children unethical?

ECT is not safe: it produces varying amounts of memory loss and other adverse effects on cognition in nearly everyone who receives it, typically lasting weeks or months after the last treatment (as well as many other adverse consequences, from ocular effects to postictal psychosis).

Does electro convulsive therapy hurt?

Freeman and R. E. Kendell of the University of Edinburgh found that 68 percent reported that the experience was no more upsetting than a visit to the dentist. For the others, ECT was more unpleasant than dentistry, but it was not painful. Still, the treatment is not hazard-free.

What does electro convulsive therapy do?

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a procedure, done under general anesthesia, in which small electric currents are passed through the brain, intentionally triggering a brief seizure. ECT seems to cause changes in brain chemistry that can quickly reverse symptoms of certain mental health conditions.

Is there an age limit for ECT?

Although there is no age limit for ECT and no absolute contraindication to its use, very old age, as well as the presence of certain cardiac conditions such as severe aortic valve stenosis, are factors which may negatively influence the clinician’s decision to administer ECT.

What is the age limit for ECT?

ECT (electroconvulsive therapy) is mostly given to patients between the age of 60 – 85 years. There is limited evidence on the efficacy and cognitive side-effects of right unilateral (RU) and bifrontal (BF) electrode positions, the placements that are considered safe for the elderly.

Is electro shock therapy ethical?

ECT research is ethical; and more research in this field could help decrease stigma and barriers to treatment, and/or reduce side effects and improve efficacy of a potentially life-saving intervention.

Why would patients turn to rTMS?

Patients who have failed to achieve an adequate response from antidepressants, or who are unable to tolerate medications, might consider rTMS therapy.