Cognitive Adverse Effect of Electroconvulsive Therapy: Is It Preventable?

Zahiruddin Othman
2021 Zenodo  
Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) has been widely accepted as among the most effective therapeutic methods for major depressive disorder (MDD) or schizophrenia patients who show poor response to standard pharmacological treatment. One of the adverse effects of ECT which remains controversial is cognitive impairment. Methods: In this article, we review the available literature about pharmacological agents that could prevent the cognitive adverse effects of ECT. Results: Among the agents that have
more » ... een shown to prevent cognitive adverse effects of ECT in humans include piracetam, naloxone, anesthetic agents, anticholinesterase drugs, memantine, thyroid hormones, and a combination of herbs. Conclusion: While preventing the cognitive adverse effects of ECT is currently not attainable, using pharmacological agents/herbs have been found to confer beneficial effects in reducing cognitive impairment.
doi:10.5281/zenodo.5150963 fatcat:sf6xdlowp5b23dp27d3ulnngiq