Final answer:
The treatment method for severe depression involving brief administration of an electric current to the brain is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), which is notable for its effectiveness, especially in treatment-resistant cases, though it comes with potential side effects like memory loss.
Step-by-step explanation:
The procedure used in the treatment of severe depression that involves an electric current being briefly administered to a patient's brain is electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). This therapeutic technique has been used since the 1930s and is considered an effective treatment for severe depression, particularly when other treatments have failed.
ECT involves passing a controlled amount of electrical current through the brain to induce a brief seizure. The exact mechanism by which ECT exerts its therapeutic effect is not fully understood, however, it's believed to involve a combination of neurochemical and neurophysiological changes, including increased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), modulation of neurotransmitter systems, and neuroplasticity enhancements.
ECT is typically administered under general anesthesia with the use of muscle relaxants to minimize discomfort and prevent injury during the induced seizure. Treatment schedules can vary, but ECT is often given two to three times a week for a total of 6 to 12 treatments. Despite its efficacy, ECT can have side effects, including memory loss and cognitive changes, which need to be carefully weighed against its benefits when considering its use.