The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has updated its Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including with new information specifically addressed to individuals in the European Economic Area. As described in the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, this website utilizes cookies, including for the purpose of offering an optimal online experience and services tailored to your preferences.

Please read the entire Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. By closing this message, browsing this website, continuing the navigation, or otherwise continuing to use the APA's websites, you confirm that you understand and accept the terms of the Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, including the utilization of cookies.

×
ArticleNo Access

METHODS OF ADMINISTRATION OF SUCCINYLCHOLINE DICHLORIDE IN ELECTROSHOCK THERAPY WITH A DESCRIPTION OF A SIMPLE AND MODIFIED TECHNIQUE AND A SUCCINYLCHOLINE DICHLORIDE TEST

Published Online:https://doi.org/10.1176/ajp.112.11.893

1. Succinylcholine dichloride (SCC) is a valuable adjunct in electroshock therapy.

2. SCC is one of the best muscle relaxants presently available.

3. A number of methods of administering it are outlined. Our own is described and the more important technical points discussed.

4. We have devised a simple test, which has made it possible for us to determine, at the time of the first treatment, the therapeutic dose required for the best muscle relaxation.

5. Routinely with all patients undergoing electroshock therapy, our aim has been to cause only partial paralysis by using small doses of SCC. However, when used in the presence of fractures, we advise larger doses so that a complete, or nearly complete, muscular relaxation to the point of temporary paralysis is produced.

6. We have not had a single fracture in 300 patients treated with our method.

Access content

To read the fulltext, please use one of the options below to sign in or purchase access.