Effect of parachlorophenylalanine on the incidence of abnormal behaviors observed following diazepam withdrawal

Abstract

• 1.

  1. Rats were rendered dependent on diazepam by administrating escalating dosages of diazepam in diet.

• 2.

  2. At the time of diazepam withdrawal, the animals were treated with parachlorophenylalanine (PCPA), a potent serotonin (5-HT) depleter, or the corresponding vehicle.

• 3.

  3. After diazepam withdrawal, PCPA-treated animals showed abnormal behaviors, such as aggression, irritability, vocalization and muscular rigidity.

• 4.

  4. In contrast, little or no changes in behavior were observed in control animals.

• 5.

  5. These results suggest that depletion of brain 5-HT by PCPA potentiates diazepam withdrawal signs.