Effect of atropine upon the cardiovascular system during soman-induced respiratory depression.

The effects of atropine, doxapram and isoproterenol upon soman-induced respiratory depression were investigated in the monkey. Administration of atropine resulted in an immediate increase in heart rate accompanied by a gradual increase in respiratory rate. The improvement in the EEG pattern coincided with improvement in respiratory function. Administration of either doxapram or isoproterenal during soman-induced apnea failed to significantly alter any of the physiological parameters. Clonazepam was used to control soman-induced seizure activity and convulsions.