Abstract

Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH), a cosubstrate for energy transfer in the oxidative phosphorylation, has supposedly beneficial effects on central nervous system (CNS)-related diseases, e.g., shown in an open study with depressive patients. To our knowledge there are no data concerning the efficacy of NADH in animal tests. Acute effects of NADH and the precursor nicotinamide, compared to controls and the antidepressants desipramine and fluoxetine, were examined in the forced swim test (FST) in Wistar rats. NADH, but not nicotinamide, reduced immobility and increased swimming behaviour in the FST, with a minimum effective dose of 5 mg/kg. NADH-induced behavioural profile was similar to fluoxetine, but different from desipramine. Since NADH did not induce hyperlocomotion but even decreased motor activity in the open field test, the antidepressant-like effect cannot be attributed to an increase in motor activity. These data support an antidepressant potential of NADH.

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 call

Disclaimer: 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.