Aminophylline increases seizure length during electroconvulsive therapy.

Abstract

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is considered to be one of the most effective treatments for patients with major depression and persistent psychosis. Seizure characteristics probably determine the therapeutic effect of ECT; as a consequence, short seizures are accepted as one of the factors of poor outcome. During most ECT courses seizure threshold increases and seizure duration decreases. Methylxanthine preparations, caffeine, and theophylline have been used to prolong seizure duration. The use of aminophylline, more readily available than caffeine, has not been well documented. The objective of this study was to test the effects of aminophylline on seizure length. Fourteen drug-free patients with diagnoses of affective disorder or psychotic episode receiving ECT participated in this study. Seizure length was assessed clinically and per EEG. Statistical comparisons were done using paired t tests. A significant increase (p < 0.04) in seizure length was achieved and maintained on three subsequent treatments with aminophylline. No adverse events were noted from the addition of aminophylline.

• Authors: L Stern, P N Dannon, S Hirschmann, S Schriber, D Amytal, O T Dolberg, L Grunhaus
• Journal: The journal of ECT (J ECT) Vol. 15 Issue 4 Pg. 252-7 (Dec 1999) ISSN: 1095-0680 [Print] United States
• PMID: 10614031 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article)

Chemical References

• Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
• Aminophylline

Topics

• Adult
• Aged
• Aged, 80 and over
• Aminophylline (pharmacology)
• Depressive Disorder (therapy)
• Electroconvulsive Therapy
• Female
• Humans
• Male
• Middle Aged
• Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors (pharmacology)
• Seizures (physiopathology)
• Time Factors
• Treatment Outcome