This in itself is a lethal dose. It's believed by some that after this anesthetic is delivered, the inmate doesn't feel anything. Saline solution flushes the intravenous line. Conventionally, this drug takes effect in one to three minutes after being injected. Other chemicals that can be used as a paralyzing agent include tubocurarine chloride and succinylcholine chloride.
Saline solution flushes the intravenous line.
This induces cardiac arrest. Within a minute or two after the last drug is administered, a physician or medical technician declares the inmate dead. The amount of time between when the prisoner leaves the holding cell and when he or she is declared dead may be just 30 minutes. Death usually occurs anywhere from five to 18 minutes after the execution order is given. After the execution, the body is placed in a body bag and taken to medical examiner, who may perform an autopsy.