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.