Anticonflict effects of low doses of chloroquine

The effects of low doses (0.125-1 mg/kg) of chloroquine were investigated in a modified Vogel's conflict paradigm and in the light-dark transition box. In the Vogel's conflict paradigm, the compound was found to exert a marked dose-dependent increase in the number of shocks accepted by rats in the conflict situation, thus indicating an anxiolytic-like action. In the light-dark transition box, chloroquine increased the number of transitions between the two compartments and the time spent in the lighted area by mice. Thus chloroquine exhibited anticonflict properties in two animal models of anxiety. It is therefore concluded that chloroquine might possess antianxiety-like properties in low doses.