Effect of Single and Repeated Electroconvulsive Shock on Body Temperature in Mice.
The time course of rectal temperature in mice was measured following a single and the last of 10 once-daily electroconvulsive shocks (ECS). In addition, temperature measurements were carried out following a single ECS 1 and 2 weeks after a course of 10 once-daily ECS treatments. After a single ECS, the animals showed a decrease of 2.3 +/- 0.3 degrees C, lasting for at least 90 min. Following the last of 10 ECS, the maximum response was markedly attenuated to 0.7 +/- 0.1 degrees C, and this attenuated response was present at least 1 week later. This effect may be mediated by alterations in postsynaptic alpha(2)-adrenoceptor or presynaptic 5-HT(1A) receptor sensitivity, or may reflect a more fundamental resetting of temperature mechanisms.
Gleiter
Christoph H.
CH
Laboratory of Clinical Studies, DICBR, National Institute on Alcoholism and Alcohol Abuse, Bethesda, Maryland, USA.
Costello
Michael J.
MJ
Nutt
David J.
DJ