Reversal of the reserpine electroencephalographic synchronization in the rabbit by parachlorophenylalanine

Abstract

In the rabbit, reserpine induced an initial period of synchronization of the electroencephalogram which lasted about 30 min and was followed by a sustained pattern of electrical activation. Pretreatment with p-CPA reversed the initial reserpine synchronization, which was replaced by a continuous and very regular pattern of electrical activation. The sleep pattern following injection of reserpine is interpreted as related to a release of 5-HT in active sites and therefore available for synaptic transmission. This release of 5-HT predominates at the beginning of reserpine action and the subsequent activated period could be related to a dominance of catecholaminergic mechanisms. © 1974.