Schizophrenia

Description

Other Treatments

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), often called shock treatment, has received bad press since it was introduced in the 1940s. However, refined techniques have revived its use, particularly for those with severe depression. Imaging studies have not found that current ECT techniques cause any damage to the brain's structure, and some physicians feel it is safer than drug therapy. It has not been widely studied in patients with schizophrenia. However, some small studies, including one in 2002, are suggesting it may improve symptoms, including negative symptoms, when used with medication. A major 2002 analysis found some limited proof that this approach may be useful for schizophrenia and there is no evidence to suggest that it should not be used in these patients.

Magnetic Stimulation

Some investigators are testing a procedure called transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), which reduces brain activity. The procedure administers magnetic stimulation to the scalp in the area above and behind the left ear (which corresponds to the areas in the brain associated with auditory hallucinations). Some early studies are reporting reduced hallucinations in between 52% and 70% of patients receiving this therapy. Further research is under way.