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.