[The influence of central monoaminergic systems on the anticonvulsive action of propranolol]

The influence of substances modulating the activity of central monaminergic systems on the anticonvulsant effect of propranolol was investigated with the maximal electroshock test in mice. The results demonstrated that especial the noradrenergic system plays an important role in modulating the efficacy of propranolol. Pharmacological stimulation of the noradrenergic system (e. g. with desipramine, pargyline, yohimbine) resulted in an enhanced anticonvulsant effect of propranolol. Compounds that suppress the noradrenergic transmission reduced this action. On the other hand manipulations of serotonergic (with 5,7-DHT, 5-HTP, PCPA) or dopaminergic (with 6-OHDA + desipramine, apomorphine) mechanisms seems to be without marked influence on the protective effect of propranolol in maximal electroshock.