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Published on: February 18, 2016
Diazepam-induced place preference conditioning: appetitive and antiaversive properties
Psychopharmacology
|January 1, 1985
Summary
Diazepam, a benzodiazepine, creates a conditioned place preference in rats, indicating its reinforcing properties. This effect was blocked by CGS 8216, picrotoxin, and naloxone, suggesting complex neurochemical interactions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- The reinforcing properties of psychoactive drugs are often assessed using place conditioning paradigms.
- Benzodiazepines, like diazepam, are commonly prescribed for anxiety but their abuse potential requires thorough investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reinforcing effects of diazepam using the place conditioning paradigm in rats.
- To explore the neurochemical mechanisms underlying diazepam-induced place preference.
Main Methods:
- Rats received injections of diazepam or vehicle and were confined to one side of a shuttle box with distinct features.
- Place preference was assessed by observing compartment choices during testing in either a drugged or undrugged state.
- The effects of antagonists (CGS 8216, picrotoxin, naloxone) and sodium valproate on diazepam-induced place preference were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Diazepam produced a dose-dependent place preference, indicating reinforcing effects.
- This preference was observed regardless of pairing conditions or testing state (drugged or undrugged).
- CGS 8216, picrotoxin, and naloxone antagonized the diazepam-induced place preference, while sodium valproate did not.
Conclusions:
- Diazepam exhibits significant reinforcing properties, as demonstrated by conditioned place preference in rats.
- The findings suggest that GABAergic and possibly opioid pathways are involved in mediating diazepam's reinforcing effects.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate the neurobiological underpinnings of benzodiazepine reinforcement.
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