Sensitization to haloperidol-induced suppression of milk intake: effect of interdose interval

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of manipulating the interdose interval (IDI) on the suppression of milk intake induced by haloperidol (HAL). Groups of rats were given chronic injections of either HAL (0.625 mg/kg) or saline at IDIs of 1, 2, 7, or 14 days. Dose-response curves were determined at the conclusion of the chronic phase. The results indicated that injections of HAL given at IDIs of 1 or 2 days produced neither tolerance nor sensitization, whereas injections given at intervals of 7 or 14 days produced sensitization. Sensitization was also observed in the control groups, perhaps as a result of the intermittent schedule of HAL injections given during the dose-response tests. Sensitization to HAL was not accompanied by changes in sensitivity to amphetamine. The results of this experiment are consistent with those of other studies in showing that the behavioral effects of neuroleptics are strongly influenced by the schedule of injections. In addition, evidence is presented that sensitization to HAL-induced hypophagia is contingent on behavioral experience under the drug.