Enhancement of in vitro binding and some of the pharmacological properties of diazepam by a novel anthelmintic agent, Avermectin B1a.

A novel macrocyclic lactone disaccharide anthelmintic agent, Avermectin B1a (AVM) has been found to cause a concentration-dependent increase in the in vitro binding of 3H-diazepam to rat and mouse brain membranes. The increase in binding is manifested as both an increase in the affinity and number of bindings sites for 3H-diazepam. Preliminary in vivo studies demonstrate that AVM can also enhance some of the pharmacological actions of diazepam.