ISSN:
1432-2072
Keywords:
Anorexiants
;
Activity Analysis
;
Time Sampling
;
Screening Tests
;
Phenylethylamines
;
Serotonin
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Medicine
Notes:
Abstract A series of eight experiments were conducted on the acute effects of a number of anorexic agents on rat exploratory behaviour, as assessed by a “time sampling” procedure of behavioural categorisation. Compounds studied were of three types. Firstly, some well known anorexiants (Amphetamine, Diethylpropion, Fenfluramine); secondly, a series of fenfluramine derivatives (Norfenfluramine, SE 780, SE 1513 and SKF 1-39728); and thirdly, an indole derivative (U 22-394A). All the compounds except the latter are based upon a phenylethylamine configuration. The results indicate that amphetamine and diethylpropion are stimulants whilst fenfluramine is a sedative, in accord with the clinical reports of the effects of acute administration of these compounds. All the other phenylethylamines and U 22-394A were found to be sedatives. The technique of activity analysis described here is a useful screening test for psychotropic agents which affect C.N.S. excitability in humans, which is probably superior to other measures of activity in its predictive value. However, it is noted that the effects of acute administration do not always provide a reliable index of chronic effects. The compounds SE 780 and SKF 1-39728 would seem to merit further study. It is suggested that all the fenfluramine derivatives, except SKF 1-39728, have a similar mode of anorexic action to U 22-394A.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00421560
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