Changes in the behavioral reactions of experimental animals after repeated treatment and withdrawal of a combination of phenobarbital and carbamazepine.

The present study investigates changes in behavioral reactions, muscle tonus and staticokinetic reflexes of white rats after repeated applications and subsequent discontinuation of a phenobarbital-carbamazepine combination. These changes were compared to those induced by the two preparations when given alone. The study found a reduction in the orientation capacity of animals treated with single applications and repeated dosages (continuing up to four days) of the anticonvulsants phenobarbital and carbamazepine. Withdrawal of the pharmaceuticals is followed by significant changes in the motor activity and orientation capacity. This is especially apparent on the third day after the pharmaceutical combination was applied. Changes in the other parameters are insignificant, ambiguous and irregular. The described manifestations resulting from discontinuation of the combination treatment is considered to be a warning about the risk of physical dependence on the drug combination.