Early use of electroconvulsive therapy in individuals with first episode psychosis: A case series

Abstract

The use of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in various neuropsychiatric disorders has been well accepted. ECT has been proven to be safe and effective in adolescents and in old age. However, only a handful of literature is available on its effectiveness in first episode psychosis (FEP). In this case series, individuals with FEP who received ECT in their 1st month of treatment for various indications were described. During follow-up, subjects showed considerable improvement in their psychopathology and functional outcomes. None of them had any adverse events during or after ECT sessions. Thus, the present case series highlights the usefulness and safety of early use of ECT in individuals with first episode psychosis and its effectiveness in reducing the acute symptoms leading to remission and better outcomes.