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Multiple daily amphetamine administration: behavioral and neurochemical alterations
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|February 22, 1980
Summary
Repeated amphetamine injections in rats caused a faster, stronger stereotypy response. This enhanced sensitivity to amphetamine persisted even after a drug holiday, suggesting a role in amphetamine psychosis development.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Repeated amphetamine administration can lead to altered behavioral responses.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for comprehending drug addiction and psychosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term effects of repeated amphetamine administration on behavioral responses in rats.
- To determine if enhanced amphetamine sensitivity persists after a period of withdrawal.
Main Methods:
- Rats received daily amphetamine injections (2.5 mg/kg) every 4 hours for 5 days.
- Behavioral parameters including onset, magnitude, and offset of stereotypy and hyperactivity were measured.
- Monoamine concentrations, amphetamine levels, and tyrosine hydroxylase activity were assessed.
Main Results:
- Repeated amphetamine injections led to a progressive increase in stereotypy onset speed and magnitude.
- Offset times for stereotypy and hyperactivity were significantly shortened during treatment.
- Enhanced stereotypy onset persisted 8 days after treatment cessation, while offset times returned to baseline.
Conclusions:
- Repeated amphetamine exposure induces lasting hypersensitivity to its effects.
- This persistent enhanced responsiveness may be a contributing factor in the development of amphetamine psychosis.
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