Caffeine lengthens ECT seizures, perhaps by lowering the convulsive
threshold. The authors assessed the impact of caffeine on the convulsive
threshold and seizure duration. The convulsive threshold and seizure
durations of 12 inpatients receiving right unilateral ECT were determined
with and without caffeine pretreatment. Caffeine did not change the
convulsive threshold, but it did lengthen seizure duration. Caffeine's
lengthening of seizure duration without affecting the convulsive threshold
is an uncertain benefit in right unilateral ECT.Abstract Teaser