OBSERVATIONS ON THE MECHANISM OF ELECTRICALLY INDUCED CONVULSIONS

Abstract

In 24 patients undergoing electrical convulsive treatment, the minimal convulsive dose was detd. They were then given either 50 to 100 mg. of nicotinic acid intravenously, or amyl nitrite by inhalation. Electroshock was given within 2 mins. after the admn. of either drug. In 60% of cases, the electrically induced convulsions were inhibited. It is believed that vasoconstriction may be one of the mechanisms involved in such convulsions.