ECT: New Study Demands Suspension Over Heart Risks

Emerging research suggests that electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may carry more significant risks than previously understood, prompting calls for its temporary suspension. Beyond known memory issues, a new study highlights 25 additional potential side effects, including cardiovascular problems, fatigue, and emotional blunting. These findings, derived from patient and family surveys, raise serious questions about the treatment's safety profile.

The study found that a notable percentage of individuals undergoing ECT reported adverse reactions such as heart issues and recurring headaches. Emotional blunting was also a commonly reported side effect, alongside memory-related problems affecting relationships and navigation. These concerns have intensified calls for a thorough re-evaluation of ECT's safety and efficacy, with some experts questioning its approval status by modern regulatory standards.

While some mental health professionals advocate for ECT's continued use, particularly for treatment-resistant conditions, citing its effectiveness in managing severe symptoms, others emphasize the need for more robust research. The debate highlights a division within the field, with calls for greater transparency regarding risks and a push for improved regulation to ensure patient safety and informed consent.