Behavioral and eegraphic changes induced by dopaminergic antidepressants in rabbits.

Nomifensine, Bupropion and Amineptine, "second generation" antidepressants with dopaminergic effects, were studied in the rabbit with special regard to their action on somatic and autonomic behavior, and cerebral electrical activity. All three drugs induced an "alarm" reaction and typical dopaminergic behavioral responses including sniffing, jumping and chewing. Mydriasis was also observed especially at high dose levels. EEG showed an arousal pattern for each of these drugs. A marked increase in the hippocampal spiking resulted from the i.v. administration of 15 mg/kg of Bupropion.