Abstract

A vascularly isolated, neurally intact head preparation has been used to determine whether succinylcholine, decamethonium or d-tubocurarine affect breathing by an action on central mechanisms. Doses of these compounds which produce a prolonged apnea in an anesthetized animal do not influence breathing in the absence of a peripheral effect. Thus, the data obtained in this study does not agree with the concept that these neuromuscular blocking compounds depress respiration by an action on central structures.