The effects of phenobarbital on lithium chloride induced taste aversion

The dose related effects of phenobarbital on LiCl induced taste aversion were examined. Rats were adapted to a 23 hr 50 min water deprivation schedule. On the Treatment Day animals were offered a novel 0.125% saccharin solution during the 10 min drinking session and were then administered 3.0 mEq/kg LiCl. The saccharin solution was presented again on six subsequent Test Days. Sodium phenobarbital 20, 40, 60 and 80 mg/kg was administered 15 min prior to drinking on the first Test Day. Results indicated that all doses significantly attenuated taste aversion with the maximal effect occurring with the 60 mg/kg dose.