Effects of atropine and glycopyrrolate on cognitive function following anaesthesia and electroconvulsive therapy (ECT)

Memory changes are known to be associated with electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). The anticholinergic drugs used prior to the procedure have also been suspected of causing cognitive deficits. The present study was designed to assess memory and concentration in depressed patients receiving 0.6 mg atropine, 0.2 mg glycopyrrolate or placebo before anaesthesia and ECT. Glycopyrrolate is an anticholinergic agent lacking central nervous system effects. Anaesthesia and bilateral ECT resulted in significant short-term memory deficit, but this was seen equally in each of the groups of patients irrespective of which premedication was given. As no regimen was superior, as far as effect on memory is concerned, premedication for ECT should be chosen according to other criteria.