A CLINICAL REPORT ON THE USE OF QUINIDIN SULPHATE

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORICAL RÉSUMÉ Although eight years have passed since Wenckebach¹ noted the restoration of normal rhythm by quinin in cases of auricular fibrillation, there is but little agreement regarding the indications and limitations for the use of this drug or its more effective isomer, quinidin. As Wenckebach found quinin but rarely effective, it was used but little for the four years following his report. Then, in 1918, Frey, testing other alkaloids obtained from cinchona in cases of auricular fibrillation, showed the greater efficacy of quinidin in restoring normal mechanism, and gave the investigation new impetus. This first report,² embodying the results obtained in his first twelve cases, was followed by another report on twenty-two cases.³ Here he outlined the method of administration still used with little change, and noted the advisability of previous digitalization and test dosage with quinidin. His observations on recurrence, toxic and untoward results, and changes