
Suggest Treatment For Depression Despite Having Pridelex And Rabzoli

Problem started on : 14th Dec'14
Visited doctor : 16th Dec'14
ECT : 26th and 27 Dec'14
Still continuing medicines ...Please suggest
At least six to eight sessions of ECT needed.
Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX
Welcome to Healthcare Magic!
ECT provides fast relief in depressive episodes, whether with or without psychotic features, as compared to medicines. While medicines usually take around 4 to 6 weeks for optimum response, in case of ECT, one can see results within a few sittings, and often after the first session itself. From what you have written, it appears that your wife has improved to some extent after two sessions of ECT. This is a promising sign, but please do not expect 100% improvement in such a short duration. Usually it takes around six to eight sessions of ECT for complete remission. Some patients require less number of sessions while some others need more. ECT is usually given on alternate days, around two to three sessions per week. You are continuing with the medicines, but please discuss with your doctor regarding the need to continue ECT. Since the last session was on 27th, she should have received at least one more session by now. If for some reason your doctor decides to treat her only with medicines and no ECTs, then you can expect to see complete improvement in two to three months.
Please also keep in mind that medicines will have to be continued for quite some time even after she recovers completely.
Please let me know if I can help you further.
Best wishes.
Dr Preeti Parakh
MD Psychiatry

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