GABA-ergic mechanisms in the central control of cough

The antitussive activity of gabalinoleamide (Gabalid U CB) was studied in 40 non-anaesthetized cats. The antitussive action of the substance was compared to that of codeine (Codein Spofa). Cough was induced by mechanical stimulation using a chronic tracheal cannula. Single cough parameters were evaluated from changes in the side tracheal pressure. When gabalinoleamide was administered in a dose of 100 mg/kg b.w. intramuscularly all the studied parameters of cough showed a statistically significant decrease, only the intensity of maximum cough effort remained unaffected. Gabalinoleamide administered in the same dose induced a statistically significant decrease of respiratory frequency and breathing amplitude, and prolonged the cycle of breathing by delaying the expiratory phase. Higher doses (200 and 300 mg/kg b.w.) did not have an increased cough suppressing effect. The quality and quantity of cough parameters were similar after codeine and gabalinoleamide.