Posted by linkadge on April 14, 2009, at 21:25:41
In reply to Re: ECT, posted by Phillipa on April 14, 2009, at 0:16:34
That what I am saying. If you just take a drug to reduce memory formation and recall you can usually get it back by discontinuing the drug. Nothing like a highly anticholinergic TCA to forget what they hell the problem really was.
With ECT however, the changes may be permanant, unwelcome and more extensive than desired. As Larry mentioned, you are not just affecting memory formation, you are also affecting all aspects of the way the brain functions.
I think it is ironic how you have this whole branch of medicine emerging whose primary purpose is to research the neuroprotective effects of certain agents during animal ECT procedures. If ECT doesn't cause brain damage, then what needs is there to protect it during ECT??
Sure, if all you want to do is sit around and 'forget', then perhaps ECT is a viable option. Many people don't return to a state of wellness with ECT - i.e. being able to return to their jobs - or returning to the things in their life that require a full brain to perform and appreciate.
Linkadge
poster:linkadge
thread:890415
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20090408/msgs/890758.html