The effects of codeine on human aggressive responding.
Ten healthy male research subjects received placebo, 25, 50 and 75 mg/70 kg of codeine in a controlled laboratory setting. During each session subjects had two response options. The non-aggressive response option was maintained by points exchangeable for ten cents. The aggressive response option ostensibly subtracted a point from the subject's fictitious partner. Aggressive responding was engendered by point subtractions attributed to a fictitious partner. Codeine did not significantly alter the frequency of monetarily reinforced, nonaggressive, responding. Aggressive responding was significantly increased at the 50 mg/70 kg dose of codeine. The frequency of aggressive responses during the placebo sessions preceding administration of the first codeine dose were significantly and positively correlated with scores on the Buss-Durkee Hostility Scale. Aggressive responding increased for four of five subjects scoring below the median on the Buss-Durkee Hostility Scale at the 50 mg/70 kg dose; while administration of 50 mg/70 kg increased aggressive responding of one subject who scored above the median. Aggressive responding for both groups of subjects was unaffected by the 75 mg/70 kg dose.
Spiga
R
R
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Texas Medical Schoo, Houston.
Cherek
D R
DR
Roache
J D
JD
Cowan
K A
KA
D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D000374:Aggression / Q000187:drug effects*; D003061:Codeine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011581:Psychological Tests
D003061:Codeine