Effects of catecholamine synthesis inhibition on ethanol-induced withdrawal symptoms in mice.
alpha-Methyl-p-tyrosine, a catecholamine synthesis inhibitor, was studied to determine its effects against ethanol-induced withdrawal symptoms in mice. Signifilcant (P < 0.001) potentiation of the withdrawal convulsion score induced by ethanol vapour exposure for three days was observed in mice. The synergistic effect was not due to alteration of ethanol metabolism. These results indicate that reductions in catecholamines (dopamine and noradrenaline) augment seizure activity induced by subchronic exposure to ethanol.
D000818:Animals; D001273:Atmosphere Exposure Chambers; D002395:Catecholamines / Q000096:biosynthesis*; D004357:Drug Synergism; D000431:Ethanol / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology*; D006801:Humans; D007267:Injections; D007274:Injections, Intraperitoneal; D008781:Methyltyrosines / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000494:pharmacology; D051379:Mice; D011720:Pyrazoles / Q000008:administration & dosage; D013375:Substance Withdrawal Syndrome
D002395:Catecholamines; D008781:Methyltyrosines; D011720:Pyrazoles; D000431:Ethanol