Transdermal selegiline in patients receiving electroconvulsive therapy

Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) during a course of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is controversial. Objective: In this report, the authors present outcomes of this concurrent treatment approach. Method: The authors present two cases of patients taking the newest MAOI approved for depression, namely, transdermal selegiline, while receiving ECT. Results: The authors conclude that there is no evidence of complications or adverse events associated with concurrent use of ECT and low-dose transdermally administered selegiline. Conclusion: The authors further conclude that beginning a low dose of transdermal selegiline before finishing a course of ECT is a viable option for relapse prevention in the treatment of depression.