Sequelae of 6 months continuous administration of cis(Z)-and trans(E)-flupenthixol in the rat

Rats were treated continuously with cis(Z)- or trans (E)-flupenthixol via drinking water for 6 months. Stereotypy responses to 0.15 mg/kg apomorphine (APOM) were enduringly, and stereospecifically, antagonised by cis (Z)-flupenthixol at either 0.5-1.0 or 1.4-3.0 mg/kg per day. Responses to 1.0 mg/kg APOM were antagonised after 5 days but enhanced after 6 months on cis (Z)-flupentixol (1.4-3.0 mg/kg per day). Distinct dopamine-dependent processes may be differentially sensitive to adaptation during extended neuroleptic treatment.