Labetalol does not lengthen asystole during electroconvulsive therapy

Labetalol, a combined alpha- and beta-adrenergic blocker is often used to a ttenuate the transient increases in heart rate and blood pressure that acco mpany electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). II has been suggested that labetalol should not be administered during ECT without the protection provided by a nticholinergic medications, because of its potential severe bradycardic eff ects. We present our experience with 32 patients from all age groups who re ceived labetalol without anticholinergic treatment during ECT. None of the patients demonstrated adverse bradycardic effects. We conclude that adminis tration of labetalol during ECT does not routinely require premedication wi th anticholinergic drugs and does not lengthen asystole.