Effects of angelica naphtha on the withdrawal signs and norepinephrine release in morphine-dependent rats

Abstract

Objective To explore the effects of angelica naphtha on the withdrawal signs and norepinephrine neurotransmitter in morphine-dependent rats. Methods 72 SD rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, clonidine group and three angelica naphtha groups(80, 40 and 20 mg/kg) . Rats were received gradualy increasing doses of morphine to produce physical dependence.Withdrawal symptoms were evaluated by Ryuta Tomoji score.The level of norepinephrine and normetanephrine(NMN) were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA). Results The scores of withdrawal signs were (4.00± 3.29), (30.13±4.41), (18.96±4.43), 26.04±4.13), (22.33±4.60) and (19.00±3.47), respectively.The morphine withdrawal signs were reduced by angelica naphtha in a dose-dependent manner(P<0.01), also significantly reduced the level of NE and NMN and the ratio of NMN/NE in the nucleus ceruleus and prefrontal cortex(all P<0.01). Conclusion Angelica naphtha alleviates the withdrawal symptoms in morphine-dependent rats, which may be related to the inhibition of excessive turnover of norepinephrine neurotransmitters in the nucleus ceruleus and prefrontal cortex. Key words: Angelica naphtha; Morphine withdrawal; Norepinephrine; Rats