[Modification of vigilance in the postanesthetic phase using physostigmine]

Physostigmine is an approved antidote in the treatment of intoxication as well as in the management of overdoses of numerous medications--many of which are used in the course of pre-medication or anesthesia induction or maintenance. In order to clarify whether or not physostigmine can accelerate the restoration of normal vigilance, a randomised, double-blind study of 60 patients was performed on the basis of 14 pre-determined vigilance criteria. The patients who received physostigmine demonstrated a significantly superior and more rapid restoration of consciousness as compared to the control group. Side-effects following administration were not observed. The results of our study indicate that post-anaesthesia administration of physostigmine appears useful in the treatment of certain types of patients.