Sensitivity of auditory lateralization and temporal order tests to benzodiazepines.

The responses to tests of auditory lateralization and temporal order to the administration of desmethyldiazepam (DMDZ) and of chlorodesmethyldiazepam (Cl-DMDZ) have been investigated. Therapeutic doses of these two benzodiazepines were used. We have tested four groups of 10 healthy normally hearing subjects. It was demonstrated that both DMDZ and Cl-DMDZ cause a temporary disturbance in the lateralization tests: delta i but especially delta t. The temporal order test is not altered after drug administration. The physiopathological and topodiagnostic value of these tests and the site of action of the benzodiazepines are discussed.