Effects of gamma-vinyl GABA on food intake of rats

Gamma-vinyl GABA, an inhibitor of GABA-transaminase, produced a dose-related reduction of food intake in rats, after both single, (125-1000 mg/kg IP or 500 mg/kg PO) and repeated (250 mg/kg/day IP) administration. No tolerance was observed to the effect of repeated injections. Catecholamine and indoleamine systems in the CNS do not appear to be implicated in this anorexic effect. Combination of gamma-vinyl GABA with amphetamine (2.5 mg/kg) enhanced the anorexic effects of the latter compound whilst attenuating its stimulant effects. The data suggest an important role for GABA in the control of food intake.