FDA Bans Electric Shock Devices For Use In Aversive Therapies

On March 6, 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) finalized a rule banning the use of electrical stimulation devices (ESDs) as an aversive conditioning device that provides an electric shock to the skin to reduce the incidence of self-injurious behavior (SIB) or aggressive behavior (AB). The rule is effective April 6, 2020. The ban includes both new devices and devices already in distribution and use. The FDA has determined that these devices present an unreasonable and substantial risk of illness or injury that cannot be corrected or eliminated by labeling.

SIB and AB frequently manifest in . . .