Author response

Fiona Martin,Tim Elworthy

doi:10.1192/pb.37.12.403a

Abstract

Author response

Highlights

Martin & Elworthy report that the biggest reason for prescribing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) less frequently than before is the perception among psychiatrists that ‘more effective medication’ exists.[1]
The authors collude with this exaggerated view, claiming that ‘psychiatric medications have undoubtedly become more effective over recent years’
Meta-analysis shows that the current first-line treatments for depressive disorder, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, are marginally less effective than older tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs), while serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors show no statistically significant advantage over TCAs.[2]

Summary

Introduction

Martin & Elworthy report that the biggest reason for prescribing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) less frequently than before is the perception among psychiatrists that ‘more effective medication’ exists.[1]. Martin & Elworthy report that the biggest reason for prescribing electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) less frequently than before is the perception among psychiatrists that ‘more effective medication’ exists.[1] the authors collude with this exaggerated view, claiming that ‘psychiatric medications have undoubtedly become more effective over recent years’.

Results

Conclusion