Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) in the treatment of depression, considering its benefits and comparing its effectiveness between unipolar and bipolar depression. In addition, to observe the risk of episodes of mania after the use of ECT. Bibliographic Review: Currently, although it is a very promising therapy, the use of ECT has been reserved for cases refractory to drug treatment, because it is still a tool that is not widespread in clinical practice. According to current evidence, the shorter the duration of the disease, the higher the response and remission rates of symptoms with the use of electroconvulsive therapy, with some studies claiming that the response rate of bipolar depression is higher than that of depression unipolar. Some adverse effects were noticed, including the development of manic episodes in previously depressed patients. Final considerations: Studies have shown clinical improvement in patients with bipolar and unipolar depressive disorder using ECT as a treatment, especially in bipolar depression. It was observed the occurrence of manic episodes after the use of this therapy, as an adverse effect. However, more research is needed to reduce stigma and obtain more data.