Abstract
Studies of the effect of anorectic drugs such as fenfluramine in mice have indicated the desirability of using experimental protocols that do not involve deprivation. We have developed a non-deprivation or "dessert" protocol for use in mice that are maintained in standard housing conditions, and examine the effects of a serotonergic agent dexfenfluramine (DFEN), a dopaminergic agent phentermine (PHEN), and a selective norepinephrine uptake inhibitor thionisoxetine (TNIX) alone and in combination. Female C57BL/6J mice were adapted to 30 min daily presentation of a gelatinized form of sweetened milk using a holder that hooks over the side of the cage during tests; food spillage and contamination are minimal. Dose-inhibition curves were determined for DFEN, PHEN, and TNIX alone and for fixed ratio combinations of DFEN with either PHEN or TNIX. Each drug produced a near linear dose-inhibition curve with the 50% inhibitory doses (DI50) of 5.6, 3.2 and 12.2 mg/kg, respectively. By isobolographic analysis, the effects of the drug combinations were strictly additive. The procedure described is highly suitable for testing anorectic drugs in mice and is adaptable to a variety of housing conditions and diets. The DFEN+ PHEN combination was additive, which contrasts with its reported supra-additive effect in rats.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
