Insulin shock therapy

Insulin Shock Therapy

Introduction

Insulin Shock Therapy, also known as insulin coma therapy, is a form of psychiatric treatment in which insulin is used to induce a state of hypoglycemia leading to convulsions and coma. Developed in the 1930s, this therapy was primarily used for the treatment of schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders before the advent of modern antipsychotic medications.

Historical Context

Insulin shock therapy was introduced by the Austrian-American psychiatrist Manfred Sakel in the early 1930s. It gained popularity as a treatment for schizophrenia, particularly in the period before antipsychotic drugs became available in the 1950s.

Mechanism of Action

The therapy involves the administration of large doses of insulin to lower blood sugar levels, leading to hypoglycemia. This hypoglycemic state was believed to induce seizures and coma, which were thought to have therapeutic effects on psychiatric conditions.

Procedure

The procedure involved:

• Daily injections of insulin to induce a controlled coma.
• Patients being closely monitored for signs of hypoglycemia.
• Termination of the insulin-induced coma by administering glucose.

Historical insulin syringe used in insulin shock therapy.

Efficacy and Controversy

While some reports in the mid-20th century claimed benefits of insulin shock therapy, its efficacy has been highly controversial. Lack of controlled studies and understanding of its mechanism made its benefits dubious. The therapy also had significant risks, including brain damage and death.

Decline and Discontinuation

With the development of effective antipsychotic medications in the 1950s, insulin shock therapy saw a rapid decline in use. It was largely abandoned due to its high risk, ethical concerns, and the advent of safer, more effective treatments.

Legacy and Modern Perspective

Today, insulin shock therapy is considered an obsolete and controversial method in psychiatry. Its history is often cited in discussions of ethical standards in medical treatments.

See Also

• History of psychiatry
• Schizophrenia
• Antipsychotic medication

External Links

• American Psychiatric Association
• International Society for the History of Psychiatry

Insulin shock therapy Resources
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