How frequently is ECT typically administered for effective treatment?

Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is typically administered 2-3 times per week over a course of 6-12 treatments. This schedule is designed to allow adequate time for the brain to respond to the therapy while maximizing the benefits of treatment.

Administering ECT at this frequency helps to mitigate the risk of relapse and achieves a therapeutic response more effectively. The frequency and number of treatments can be adjusted based on the patient's specific needs, clinical response, and the presence of any side effects, but this schedule is quite standard in practice.

While treatments once a week or daily may seem plausible, they do not align with the current clinical guidelines and typical patient experiences. Monthly treatment protocols are usually employed for maintenance therapy rather than for initial treatment, making them less appropriate for achieving the immediate therapeutic goals of ECT.