Prazosin increases paradoxical sheep.
Prazosin 0.5 and 1.0 mg/kg i.p. induced a prompt and enduring increase in paradoxical sleep in the cat. The maximal effect, 140 percent above control was observed during the first 4 h after 1 mg/kg. In 16 h polygraphic records the respective increment was 69%. After 10 mg/kg paradoxical sleep was inhibited but it returned to control levels in 16 h. These results are discussed with reference to our previous experiments with agents having different alpha 1- and alpha 2-antagonist or agonist potency. It is concluded that selective, moderate blockade of alpha 1-receptors favours paradoxical sleep.
D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal / Q000187:drug effects; D002415:Cats; D008297:Male; D011224:Prazosin / Q000494:pharmacology*; D011799:Quinazolines / Q000494:pharmacology*; D011942:Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha / Q000187:drug effects; D012895:Sleep, REM / Q000187:drug effects*
D011799:Quinazolines; D011942:Receptors, Adrenergic, alpha; D011224:Prazosin