Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) generated many controversies over time. The clinical literature establishing the efficacy of ECT is among the most solid for any medical treatment, and has been extensively reviewed; however, both practitioners and patients seem to be still reluctant on this issue. In the following review we are aiming at raising the level of awareness among the interested parties regarding ECT. Epidemiological evidence shows that there are a growing number of cases in which ECT has a great benefit, among the most notable being pharmacological resistant depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, catatonia and others. Current guidelines seem to be overly-prudent regarding ECT indications, in spite of a growing body of research attesting to its importance. Side effects of ECT range from somatic to cognitive and, with a careful prior examination, most are acute and can be managed in a few minutes. An exception to this is the cognitive impairment, which can last from a few hours to a few weeks and presents a reason to reconsider ECT in elderly patients with an important preexisting cognitive impairment.
Impact of metabolic syndrome and clinical features on functioning in patients with bipolar disorder: a cross-sectional study
