The differential effects of alprazolam and oxazepam on methamphetamine self-administration in rats

摘要: Abstract Background Methamphetamine is the second most commonly used illicit drug in world, and despite recent attempts by Drug Enforcement Administration to combat this epidemic, methamphetamine use still on rise. As increases so does polydrug use, particularly that involving benzodiazepines. The present study was designed examine effects of two benzodiazepines self-administration. Methods Five doses (0.0075, 0.015, 0.03, 0.09, 0.12 mg/kg/infusion) were tested, producing an inverted U-shaped dose-response curve. Rats then pretreated with oxazepam, alprazolam, or vehicle prior To determine if these drugs due GABA A receptor and/or translocator protein (TSPO), we also rats antagonist for benzodiazepine-binding site (i.e., flumazenil) a TSPO PK11195) alprazolam oxazepam administration. Results Oxazepam significantly reduced self-administration as demonstrated downward shift In contrast, enhanced evidenced leftward Flumazenil completely blocked When administered individually, both flumazenil PK11195 partially reversed However, when antagonists combined, reversed. Conclusions responsible alprazolam-induced enhancement self-administration, while activation are oxazepam-induced reduction