The safety and efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy in patients over age 75.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the safety and efficacy of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in patients over the age of 75 years.

METHOD: Retrospective study of all patients over 75 years treated with ECT in three hospitals between 1995 and 1997.

RESULTS

Ninety-three ECT courses were administered during the study period. Ten patients (10.8%) suffered complications following ECT. The most common adverse events were prolonged confusion and hypomania, all of which resolved within 2 weeks of the cessation of treatment. Eighty-five per cent of patients made a marked or moderate response to treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

ECT is a relatively safe and effective procedure in patients over age 75.