Referenced in: none

Automatically associated channels: Kir2.3

Title: Efficacy and safety of venlafaxine-ECT combination in treatment-resistant depression.

Authors: Ana Gonzalez-Pinto, Miguel Gutierrez, Nekane Gonzalez, Edorta Elizagarate, Jose L Perez de Heredia, Juan A Mico

Journal, date & volume: , 2002 Spring , 14, 206-9

PubMed link: http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11983797

Abstract
Thirteen patients with treatment-resistant major depression were given venlafaxine, at doses ranging from 150 mg to 375 mg, combined with ECT. Propofol was used as an anesthetic. Ten of 13 (76.9%) were considered responsive to combined ECT-venlafaxine treatment, and positive responses were not associated with venlafaxine doses. An asystole episode was observed in 4 patients; these patients had received significantly higher doses of venlafaxine (P<0.01). Treatment seems to be safe at venlafaxine doses <300 mg/day. At higher doses, with propofol used as anesthetic, the possibility of asystole cannot be ruled out. A possible additive effect of high-dose venlafaxine and propofol-blocking sodium channels are discussed.