Role of GABAergic system in prolactin analgesia

1. The role of the GABAergic system in the analgesic action of prolactin was investigated using a pharmacological approach. 2. THIP, a GABAmimetic, per se produced an analgesic effect and potentiated the analgesic effect of prolactin and morphine. 3. Bicuculline, in subconvulsive doses, per se did not alter the number of writhings, while it attenuated the analgesic effect of prolactin. 4. These results indicate a positive role for the GABAergic system in prolactin induced analgesia. 5. Since THIP resembles morphine and because prolactin possesses several other morphine-like functions, it is possible that the role played by GABA may be an opioid-related one.