A recent study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of maintenance electroconvulsive therapy (M-ECT) in patients with treatment-resistant schizophrenia. Conducted as a retrospective chart review at a psychiatric center in South India, the study involved 10 patients (seven male, three female) over eight years, receiving a range of 22 to 172 M-ECT sessions. The primary outcome measures included scores on the Clinical Global Impression-Severity, Social and Occupational Functioning Assessment Scale, and Hindi Mental Status Examination before and after M-ECT.

The results showed a significant reduction in hospitalizations for acute exacerbations and overall improvement in patient functioning without notable adverse effects. Researchers concluded that M-ECT can be a safe and effective long-term management strategy for refractory schizophrenia, though controlled trials are needed for further evidence.

Reference: Purohith AN, Chatorikar SA, Praharaj SK, Bhandary RP, Sharma PSVN. Efficacy and safety of maintenance electroconvulsive therapy (M-ECT) in treatment-resistant schizophrenia: A case series. Asian J Psychiatr. 2022;73:103132. doi:10.1016/j.ajp.2022.103132