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Lobeline does not serve as a reinforcer in rats
Steven B Harrod1, Linda P Dwoskin, Thomas A Green
1Department of Psychology, University of Kentucky, 115 Kastle Hall, Lexington, KY 40506-0044, USA. sharr2@uky.edu
Psychopharmacology
|December 3, 2002
Summary
Lobeline reduces d-methamphetamine self-administration in rats by decreasing its rewarding effects, not by acting as a substitute. This study investigated lobeline
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Addiction Research
Background:
- Previous studies showed lobeline pretreatment reduces d-methamphetamine self-administration in rats.
- The mechanism behind lobeline's effect on methamphetamine use requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if lobeline acts as a reinforcer.
- To assess lobeline's effect on d-methamphetamine-induced reinstatement of self-administration.
- To investigate lobeline's impact on dopamine pathways.
Main Methods:
- Rats underwent self-administration paradigms to test lobeline's reinforcing properties and substitution for d-methamphetamine.
- Reinstatement of responding was assessed after extinction.
- Dopamine (DA) and dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) levels were measured in the nucleus accumbens and striatum.
Main Results:
- Lobeline was not self-administered and did not substitute for d-methamphetamine.
- Lobeline did not reinstate d-methamphetamine-seeking behavior or alter d-methamphetamine-induced reinstatement.
- Lobeline did not affect DA or DOPAC levels in key brain regions.
Conclusions:
- Lobeline attenuates d-methamphetamine self-administration by reducing its rewarding properties.
- Lobeline does not act as a substitute reinforcer for d-methamphetamine.
- The findings suggest lobeline's therapeutic potential in managing stimulant use disorders.