title: Control of ethanol withdrawal symptoms in mice by phenytoin.
abstract: Mice were made physically dependent upon ethanol using either of two methods which involved ethanol vapor inhalation. Following the cessation of exposure to ethanol, the severity of handling-induced convulsions and changes in the response to an electric foot shock (startle reflex) were recorded. Animals given isotonic saline or propylene glycol:ethanol vehicle during withdrawal exhibited handling-induced convulsions, and ethanol (2.0-4.0 g/kg) or phenytoin (5-20 mg/kg) administration during withdrawal resulted in a reduction in the severity of these convulsions. A reduced startle reflex threshold was also evident during withdrawal in mice given isotonic saline or propylene glycol:ethanol vehicle. Ethanol (0.5-4.0 g/kg) or phenytoin (10-20 mg/kg) administration during withdrawal resulted in a significant elevation of the startle reflex threshold compared to control animals. The results are discussed as they relate to others obtained in experimental and clinical studies.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D000431:Ethanol / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D051379:Mice; D014677:Pharmaceutical Vehicles; D010672:Phenytoin / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D011720:Pyrazoles / Q000494:pharmacology; D013216:Reflex, Startle / Q000187:drug effects; D012640:Seizures / Q000503:physiopathology; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000209:etiology
chemical_list: D014677:Pharmaceutical Vehicles; D011720:Pyrazoles; D000431:Ethanol; D010672:Phenytoin