Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a psychiatric treatment involving induced seizures for patients with severe mental disorders such as major depressive disorder, schizophrenia and other conditions. ECT is considered an effective treatment option when other alternatives do not work or produce undesirable side effects. The procedure involves passing electric currents through the brain which triggers a brief seizure. ECT helps reset brain chemistry and provides almost immediate relief from symptoms. The Global Electroconvulsive Therapy Market is estimated to be valued at US$ 16.1 Mn in 2024 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 2.6% over the forecast period 2024 To 2031.

Key Takeaways

Key players operating in the Global Electroconvulsive Therapy Market Growth are Mecta, Ectron, Somatics, LLC., St.Jude Medical (Abbott). Mecta is one of the leading providers of ECT devices and holds a major share in the market.

The growing prevalence of mental health disorders worldwide is driving the demand for effective treatment options like ECT. According to WHO, over 300 million people are affected by depression globally. ECT continues to be used for patients who do not respond to other therapies or cannot tolerate medications.

Technological advancements are playing a key role in making ECT safer and more effective. New devices feature brief-pulse currents and muscle relaxants to reduce cognitive and memory-related side effects. Some devices also offer magnetic seizure therapy (MST), an alternative to ECT that does not require anesthesia.

Market Trends

Increasing acceptance of ECT among patients and healthcare providers: Previously, ECT faced several stigmas but is now increasingly accepted due to proven efficacy. Several positive media portrayal and patient advocacy groups are helping remove misconceptions.

Growth of home-based and tele-ECT: The pandemic has propelled the use of virtual platforms for remote ECT administration and follow-ups. Some major players are developing wireless and home-use ECT devices to expand access.

Market Opportunities

Untapped emerging markets: Developing regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America currently contribute a low share to global ECT revenues due to low awareness and affordability issues. However, growing healthcare spending is expected to boost adoption.

Scope for device innovations: While new devices target reduced side effects, further innovations toward miniaturization, enhanced stimulation methods and portable models could support increased uptake.

Impact of COVID-19 on Global Electroconvulsive Therapy Market Growth
The COVID-19 pandemic had significantly impacted the global electroconvulsive therapy market in the initial phase. Governments across regions imposed strict restrictions to curb the virus transmission which negatively affected market growth in 2020. Elective medical procedures were postponed and outpatient visits declined sharply as treatment resources were diverted towards handling COVID-19 cases. This led to reduced demand for ECT devices and associated consumables during the period. However, the treatment remains an important therapeutic option for severe mental health conditions like major depression and bipolar disorders which continued to be provided on emergency basis.

With the ongoing vaccination drives worldwide, countries are easing lockdown measures. The global electroconvulsive therapy market is projected to gradually recover lost momentum over 2021-2022 as normalcy is restored in healthcare systems and non-essential medical services pickup pace. Ongoing technological advancements in ECT devices would further aid market expansion. For instance, new devices with enhanced seizure detection, stimulus controls and monitoring capabilities are being launched. This is expected to bolster adoption rates in clinical settings across regions post pandemic. Governments are also allocating increased healthcare budgets to strengthen mental health infrastructure and services, thereby creating opportunities over the coming years.

North America dominates Global Electroconvulsive Therapy market in terms of value.
The North America region accounted for the largest share of over 40% in the global electroconvulsive therapy market valued at US$ 6.4 Mn in 2024. Well-established healthcare infrastructure, high treatment adoption rates backed by supportive reimbursement policies drive the market growth in the region. Rising prevalence of mental disorders and growing geriatric population who are at high risk of conditions like major depression further promotes regional market expansion. The USA represents the major revenue pocket with widespread availability of advanced ECT devices and trained professionals for effective administration of therapy.

Asia Pacific fastest growing region for Global Electroconvulsive Therapy market
Asia Pacific region is poised to witness fastest growth in the global electroconvulsive therapy market during the forecast period. Factors such as increasing healthcare investments, growing public awareness about ECT efficacy, rising mental health burden propelled by economic and social changes are fueling regional market growth. China and India with their large patient pools offer immense opportunities for device manufacturers and service providers. Governments are undertaking initiatives to strengthen mental healthcare infrastructure and address stigma around ECT which is supporting therapy uptake. Moreover, growing medical tourism industry attracts patients from other countries seeking affordable yet quality ECT services, thereby driving the Asia Pacific market.

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