Effects of intrathecal antagonists on the antinociception, hypotension, and bradycardia produced by intravenous administration of [D-Ala2]-methionine enkephalinamide (DALA) in the rat

S. A. Aicher, A. Randich

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

19 Scopus citations

Abstract

DALA is a synthetic pentapeptide that produces inhibition of the tail-flick reflex evoked by radiant heat, as well as hypotension and bradycardia. Two experiments examined the effects of administration of various receptor antagonists into the subarachnoid space of the lumbar spinal cord on the antinociception produced by IV administration of DALA. Experiment 1 showed that intrathecal administration of 30 μg of phentolamine produced a significant reduction in the antinociceptive effect of DALA, while naloxone (30 μg), methysergide (30 μg), or vehicle control had no effect. Experiment 2 showed that intrathecal administration of combinations of either phentolamine and methysergide, or phentolamine and naloxone, were no more effective in reducing the antinociceptive effect of DALA than administration of phentolamine alone. These data demonstrate the involvement of descending noradrenergic systems in the production of antinociception by IV DALA. Further, they indicate that the antinociception produced by DALA is independent of a direct spinal action of the drug.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)65-72
Number of pages8
JournalPharmacology, Biochemistry and Behavior
Volume30
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - May 1988
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Antinociception
  • Cardiovascular
  • DALA
  • Intrathecal
  • Pain
  • Vagus

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry
  • Toxicology
  • Pharmacology
  • Clinical Biochemistry
  • Biological Psychiatry
  • Behavioral Neuroscience

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