A simple and reliable conflict procedure for testing anti-anxiety agents

Abstract

The effects of three benzodiazepines (chlordiazepoxide, diazepam, and oxazepam), meprobamate, pentobarbital, d-amphetamine sulfate, magnesium pemoline, and scopolamine hydrobromide were studied with a simple conflict procedure in which thirsty naive rats were periodically administered shocks for licking water. The results indicated that this simple procedure clearly demonstrated "anti-anxiety" (i.e., increases in punished responding) effects with benzodiazepines, meprobamate and pentobarbital. Doses of d-amphetamine sulfate, magnesium pemoline, and scopolamine hydrobromide did not increase responding. © 1971 Springer-Verlag.