Curarization with quinine methochloride to prevent traumatic complications of metrazol shock therapy

Conclusion

A synthetic compound of quinine with a curare-like action, known as quinine methochloride, has proved to be a satisfactory substitute for aqueous extract of curare in the prevention of traumatic complications in convulsive shock therapy.

The dosage of this drug is slightly more accurate and easier to gauge in the patient. It has the drawback of being relatively insoluble, requiring a larger volume for intravenous injection. It produces a higher degree of respiratory complications; but these can be readily overcome with the antidote of prostigmin and the use of artificial respiration. The question of possible cardiac embarrassment from the drug is not entirely settled.

From present experience, the writers believe the drug is safe if carefully administered, especially if one has had previous experience with curare in this therapy and thoroughly understands its action. A combined metrazol quinine methochloride single injection technic has been developed.

Further experimentation with oral administration of the drug is necesary before it can be recommended in that form for relief of spastic rigidity states or for use in convulsive shock therapy. This drug offers great possibilities in the treatment of neuropsychiatric disease.