What drug is given before ECT?

The most commonly used agents for induction are propofol, thiopental, methohexital, etomidate, ketamine, alfentanil and remifentanil. Methohexital is a barbiturate regarded as the “gold standard” anaesthesia for ECT due to its rapid onset and recovery with minimal effect on seizure.

What neurotransmitters increase ECT?

It may promote changes in how brain cells communicate with each other at synapses and it may stimulate the development of new brain cells. ECT may flood the brain with neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which are known to be involved in conditions like depression and schizophrenia.

What is ECT best used for?

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) can provide rapid, significant improvements in severe symptoms of several mental health conditions. ECT is used to treat: Severe depression, particularly when accompanied by detachment from reality (psychosis), a desire to commit suicide or refusal to eat.

What anesthesia is used for ECT?

The anesthetic management for ECT typically involves the use of an induction dose of an IV anesthetic (e.g., methohexital or propofol) followed by a muscle relaxant (e.g., succinylcholine or mivacurium).

What medication is contraindicated with ECT?

In patients in whom its use is contraindicated, rocuronium or other nondepolarizing agents are alternatives. During ECT, significant changes in autonomic function can occur….Table 1.

Anesthetic induction agents Methohexital
Anticholinergic agents Glycopyrrolate
Atropine
Narcotics Fentanyl
Remifentanyl

How many ECT treatments are needed?

HOW MANY TIMES WILL I NEED TO BE TREATED? People undergoing ECT need multiple treatments. The number needed to successfully treat severe depression can range from 4 to 20, but most people need a total of 6 to 12 treatments. The treatments are usually given three times a week — Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

Does ECT increase serotonin?

Conclusion. Altogether, our results showed that serum serotonin levels significantly increase following ECT in MDD patients.

What does ECT actually do to the brain?

During ECT, a small amount of electrical current is passed through the brain while the patient is under general anesthesia. This current causes a seizure that affects the entire brain, including the parts that control mood, appetite, and sleep.

What are the side effects of ECT 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. These risks must be balanced with the consequences of ineffectively treated severe psychiatric disorders.

Do they intubate for ECT?

Patients are not intubated for ECT, except under extremely rare circumstances. An intravenous line is inserted in the patient’s arm, through which the anesthetic and muscle relaxant medications are administered.

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