Effect of d-amphetamine on prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex in humans (original) (raw)

Abstract

Rationale: Prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex (PPI) is attenuated in animals after administration of _d_-amphetamine and other drugs that stimulate mesolimbic dopamine activity. Objective: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of _d_-amphetamine (20 mg) on a variety of psychophysiological and subjective measures, including PPI, in humans. Method: Thirty-six participants (18 women) participated in a double-blind, placebo controlled, repeated measures study. In one session, participants received _d_-amphetamine (20 mg) orally, and in the other session, participants received an identical appearing placebo. Participants were assessed at 60, 90, and 120 min after ingestion with a 5-min block of startle trials (six control trials and six prepulse trials) followed by subjective measures of stimulation and mood. Results: _d_-Amphetamine increased subjective measures of stimulation and euphoria, attenuated PPI, and increased heart rate, relative to placebo treatment. Conclusions: The effect of _d_-amphetamine on the subjective measures was substantial and consistent over time, while the effect on PPI was only observed at 90 min after ingestion, and the effect on heart rate was limited to 90 and 120 min after ingestion.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. University of Colorado, Department of Psychology, Muenzinger Psychology Building, Campus Box 345, Boulder, CO 80309-0345, USA e-mail: kenth@psych.colorado.edu, Fax: +1-303-492–2967, , , , , , US
    K. E. Hutchison
  2. Center for Alcohol and Addiction Studies, Brown University, Box 6, Providence, R1 02912, USA, , , , , , US
    Robert Swift

Authors

  1. K. E. Hutchison
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  2. Robert Swift
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Received: 22 June 1998/Final version: 23 November 1998

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Hutchison, K., Swift, R. Effect of d-amphetamine on prepulse inhibition of the startle reflex in humans.Psychopharmacology 143, 394–400 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002130050964

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