cranial electrotherapy stimulation


A technique in which electrodes are placed on or near the ears to pass low level—less than that used in electroshock therapy—electricity through the brain; the person is awake and alert; CES can relieve anxiety for limited periods, through an unknown mechanism, and is an adjunct to anxiolytics and/or psychotherapy
Side effects Headache, lightheadedness, skin irritation Contraindications History of epilepsy or seizures

cranial electrotherapy stimulation

NET, neuroelectric therapy, TCET,
transcranial electrotherapy Psychiatry A maneuver in which electrodes are placed on or near the ears to pass low level–less than that used in electroshock therapy–electricity through the brain; the person is awake and alert; CES can relieve anxiety for limited periods, though an unknown mechanism, and is an adjunct to anxiolytics and/or psychotherapy Side effects Headache, lightheadedness, skin irritation Contraindications Hx of epilepsy or seizures. Cf Electroconvulsive therapy.