Predictors of post-electroconvulsive therapy delirium: a prospective randomized study from an Indian tertiary care centre.
Nord J PsychiatryAug 12, 2026 (epub)
Sonali Dagar, Vinod Kumar Daria, Usha Daria et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized controlled trial investigated predictors of early post-electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) delirium in 90 adult patients. The study found that 72.2% experienced delirium at 15 minutes post-ECT, with longer seizure duration significantly increasing the odds of delirium (adjusted OR = 1.09). Thiopental and etomidate were associated with lower odds of delirium compared to propofol.
Key findings
- 72.2% of patients experienced delirium at 15 minutes post-ECT.
- 83.1% of those with delirium at 15 minutes recovered by 30 minutes.
- Longer seizure duration was associated with increased odds of delirium (adjusted OR = 1.09).
- Thiopental and etomidate had lower adjusted odds of delirium compared to propofol.
Why it matters
Understanding the predictors of post-ECT delirium can help clinicians manage and mitigate this common adverse effect, improving patient recovery and overall treatment outcomes.