Table 1 Criteria for a rhythm stabiliser
Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
1 | Efficacy in restoring and stabilising at least one physiological function (not restricted to imposing a specific effect like hypnotics do) |
A | Restores the internal properties of the rhythm, that is period/frequency and amplitude |
B | Corrects the internal pattern of complex rhythms |
2 | By correcting the abnormal overexpression towards the one pole, the agent: |
A | Does not induce the opposite pole of the specific function under treatment |
B | Does not induce the opposite pole of any other physiological function which has a rhythm |
C | Does not induce desynchronisation of rhythms by correcting a specific rhythm or rhythms |
3 | It synchronises different functions: |
A | Between them |
B | With the environment |
4 | Restoration is flexible; permits adjustment to change |
A | Permits normal response to zeitgebers |
B | Permits normal response stimuli (internal or external) |
5 | The effect is evident either clinically or after laboratory investigation |