Abstract
BackgroundNicotine (NIC), the major active component of tobacco, is critical in the maintenance of the smoking habit. The aims of the present study were to analyze the behavioural and neurochemical variations during NIC withdrawal syndrome in mice, and whether they are prevented with baclofen (BAC, GABAB receptor agonist). MethodsSwiss-Webster albino mice received NIC (2.5mg/kg, s.c.) 4 times daily, for 7 consecutive days. On day 8 (the day of the experiment), NIC-treated mice received the nicotine antagonist mecamylamine (MEC, 2mg/kg, i.p.) 1h after the last dose of NIC. A second group of dependent mice received BAC (2mg/kg, i.p.) before MEC-precipitated abstinence. The somatic signs were measured for 30min. Dopamine (DA), serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) and its metabolites concentrations were determined by HPLC in the striatum, cortex and hippocampus. ResultsThe global score was greater in the abstinent group compared to the control group. Moreover, the global score time course showed a higher increase at 10min compared to the global score at 5min or 30min after MEC-precipitated NIC withdrawal. In addition, the global score was attenuated by BAC. The DA and dihydroxyphenyl acetic acid (DOPAC) cortical levels decreased in the abstinent group, while BAC reestablished these levels 10min after NIC withdrawal. Furthermore, DA and 5-HT striatal levels decreased during NIC withdrawal, and BAC reverted this decrease. ConclusionIn conclusion, the prevention of NIC withdrawal signs by BAC could be related to changes in dopaminergic and serotonergic activity.
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