SOME PROBLEMS OF DOSE VARIATION IN THE USE OF TRANQUILIZING DRUGS

Early published studies of the use of tranquilizers revealed wide variations in the methods of studying the clinical effectiveness of these drugs. Some studies omitted dosages used in arriving at conclusions regarding drug action. Others included dosage schedules but did not establish clearly the criteria on which these dosages were based. Generally the overall approach in these investigations was empirical. Currently, suggested dosage ranges of chlorpromazine, reserpine and meprobamate show a greater consistency than in the past.

Three cases are presented to demonstrate some of the clinical problems encountered in the administration of these drugs. They emphasize the necessity of focusing on dose range-clinical response relationships in future investigations.

The design of a small pilot study is presented. It is considered that this type of study offers the best opportunity to gain valuable information about dosage and drug effect when carefully and systematically performed.