Comparative efficacy and cognitive safety of magnetic seizure therapy and electroconvulsive therapy in major depressive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis - Summary - MDSpire

Comparative efficacy and cognitive safety of magnetic seizure therapy and electroconvulsive therapy in major depressive disorder: a systematic review and meta-analysis

  • By

  • Kaipeng Fan

  • Xuekang Niu

  • Jun Zhao

  • Guohao Lin

  • Jiayang Qu

  • Qiaoqiao Wang

  • Lin Li

  • June 17, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To compare the antidepressant efficacy and cognitive safety of Magnetic Seizure Therapy (MST) versus Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) for Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), emphasizing the importance of cognitive safety.

Key Findings:
  • MST and ECT had comparable clinical response (RR = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.94-1.27) and remission rates (RR = 1.04, 95% CI: 0.72-1.50).
  • Post-sensitivity analysis favored ECT for depression score change (SMD = 0.36, p=0.0001).
  • MST was superior in preserving cognitive function (SMD = 1.19, p=0.005) and enabling faster reorientation (MD = -16.72 min, p<0.00001).
  • MST reduced overall adverse event risk (OR = 0.23, p<0.00001), particularly for memory loss, headache, and muscle pain.
  • Seizure durations were shorter with MST.
Interpretation:

MST provided significantly better cognitive safety and tolerability compared to ECT, despite comparable efficacy in response and remission rates, highlighting its potential as a preferred option for patients concerned about cognitive side effects.

Limitations:
  • Heterogeneity in stimulation parameters and comparator ECT protocols may affect the generalizability of the findings.
  • Variability in outcome measures across studies could impact the reliability of comparisons.
Conclusion:

MST is a valuable alternative for MDD patients, especially when cognitive side effects are a primary concern, suggesting a need for further exploration in clinical settings.

Sources:

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