Age-Dependent Effects of Electroconvulsive Therapy on Memory.

We examined the relation between age and recovery of memory functions after electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). In a group of patients 20-65 years of age, older depressed patients treated with ECT experienced more severe and longer lasting memory deficits than did younger patients. Testing conducted 24-72 h after a course of ECT showed more severe deficits in older patients for verbal and visuospatial anterograde memory, and for retrograde memory.

Change in Attitude Toward Electroconvulsive Therapy: Effects of Treatment, Time Since Treatment, and Severity of Depression.

Attitudes toward electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) of patients with major depressive episodes who are treated with ECT were evaluated before the beginning of treatment, 1 to 2 days after completion of the 12th treatment, and 6 months after the termination of the series using a questionnaire (adapted from Freeman and Kendall, 1980). Attitudes toward ECT become more positive after treatment, and remain so at the 6-month follow-up. Attitude changes correlate with changes in depressive symptoms and with subjective side effects during treatment.

Disorientation and Bilateral Moderately Suprathreshold Titrated ECT.

Thirty-seven inpatients with major depression were assessed for postictal and interictal disorientation after they received 8 of 12 ECTs. In 20 patients, four of the eight assessments were after simulated ECT only. Only real, but not simulated, ECT produced postictal disorientation.

Atropine and Cognitive Performance After Electroconvulsive Therapy.

Two groups of patients receiving bilateral, moderately suprathreshold electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) were compared in their cognitive functions after receiving either 0.5 mg atropine i.v.