Is serotonergic function associated with the antidepressant effects of modified-electroconvulsive therapy?

Abstract Background The effect of modified-electroconvulsive therapy (m-ECT) on central serotonergic function has not been sufficiently investigated. The aim of the present study is to investigate this effect via the neuroendocrine challenge test. Methods Sixteen inpatients (9 men and 7 women) with major depressive disorder who were receiving m-ECT at our university hospital were recruited. A neuroendocrine challenge test to estimate central serotonergic function was performed both before and after m-ECT treatment. Results On the whole, depressive symptoms significantly improved, but the improvement was not associated with changes in serotonergic function. Limitations The study was open-labeled and performed with a small number of subjects and no control group. Conclusion Serotonergic function may not be associated with the antidepressant effects of ECT.