The effect of succinic semialdehyde and sodium succinate on the higher nervous activity in normal subjects.

In 15 normal volunteers the action of succinic semialdehyde (SSA), and in 24 volunteers the effect of sodium succinate (SS), on the HNA have been investigated. As a result it was found that SSA brings about some enhancement of the excitatory process in cortical - mainly verbal -activities, accompanied by subjective improvement of memory and concentration. In the other hand, the administration of SS improves the stability of cortical excitatory process and its equilibrium with cortical inhibition; and enhances the connecting activity of the verbal system.