Benefits of ECT:

The benefits of ECT may include:

• Generally less adverse side effects than medication
• Immediate results (ECT is one of the fastest ways to relieve symptoms)
• Higher efficacy rates than medication

Risks of ECT:

The side effects from ECT have greatly reduced since the 1930's, when it was first introduced. Side effects from the procedure may include:

• Temporary post treatment confusion
• Short term memory loss
• Headache
• Adverse reaction to anesthesia
• Low or high blood pressure
• Muscle soreness
• Nausea
• Rapid heartbeat