HIGH DOSAGE CHLORPROMAZINE THERAPY IN ACUTE AND CHRONIC SCHIZOPHRENIA

A method is given here where increasing doses of chlorpromazine are given to all groups of schizophrenics, reaching a peak level of 2100 mgs. per day for one week. This dosage is decreased and after assessment a maintenance level of chlorpromazine is rigidly upheld for indefinite periods. Three modified ECTs accompany the ascending limb and 3 or more modified ECTs the descending limb of chlorpromazine therapy. Side effects are multiple but none is considered dangerous or necessitating the discontinuation of the treatment, especially if all necessary precautions are taken and the patient is closely watched.

The results of this method are sufficiently encouraging to justify its continued use.

The method is not considered rigid and the level of dosage and the length of time in which higher dosage levels are given are guided, naturally, by the patient's response and the severity of the side effects. The importance of the method is felt to lie in the quick way a first remission is forced, recurring episodes and relapses reversed and chronic schizophrenic illness alleviated.