Effects of d-amphetamine and naloxone on brain stimulation reward

Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1980;69(2):187-91. doi: 10.1007/BF00427648.

Abstract

Self-stimulation thresholds were determined in rats by means of a modification of the psychophysical method of limits. Reinforcement values were determined after the administration of d-amphetamine alone, naloxone alone, and naloxone administered concurrently with d-amphetamine. d-Amphetamine yielded dose-related decreases in the threshold (0.25--2.00 mg/kg IP), while naloxone alone (2.0--16 mg/kg IP) caused no consistent changes. For each animal, a dose of d-amphetamine that substantially lowered the threshold was then selected to be administered with varying doses of naloxone. The threshold-lowering effect of d-amphetamine was blocked by naloxone at doses as low as 2.0 or 4.0 mg/kg. This finding suggests the possible involvement of an opiate receptor in the mediation of the enhancement by d-amphetamine of brain stimulation reward.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Dextroamphetamine / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Dextroamphetamine / pharmacology*
  • Differential Threshold
  • Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
  • Male
  • Naloxone / pharmacology*
  • Rats
  • Self Stimulation / drug effects*

Substances

  • Naloxone
  • Dextroamphetamine