Physostigmine reversal of postoperative somnolence

The effects of physostigmine on reversal of post-operative somnolence following general anaesthesia were evaluated in 187 patients. Significant reversal of anaesthetic-induced post-operative somnolence was observed in those patients receiving physostigmine when compared to a control group. These results suggest that general anaesthesia with halothane may be included in those situations where central nervous system depression may be reversed by administration of physostigmine. Cholinergic side-effects observed with physostigmine administration were minimal.