Effect of premedication with oral clonidine on hemodynamic response during electroconvulsive therapy

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the most effective treatment available for the acute treatment of depression in patients who do not respond to medications. It is generally used as a second line treatment for many psychological disorders, mainly major depression and schizophrenia where medication is not effective. ECT is often associated with some complications such as hypertension, tachycardia arrhythmia and even myocardial infarction. Various methods have been used for prevention or control of these cardiovascular side effects.