EFFECTS ON ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAM OF VARIOUS AGENTS USED IN TREATING SCHIZOPHRENIA

Abstract

Although brain waves from schizophrenic patients fall within normal limits there is a definite tendency towards a weak [alpha] rhythm in this disorder. This would appear to be an inborn neuro-physiological characteristic of schizophrenia. The [alpha] rhythm is temporarily strengthened by insulin hypoglycemia, metrazol, intravenous Na amytal, CO2 inhalation and emotional stimulation, agents which also seem to influence favorably the schizophrenic processes clinically. The [alpha] rhythm is not permanently strengthened by these treatments and the fundamental neurophysiological defect in schizophrenia apparently persists in a latent form even after successful clinical improvement.