Effects of diazepam and picrotoxin on hyponeophagia in rats.

The effects of diazepam (1 mg/kg), picrotoxin (1.5 mg/kg) and both treatments on hyponeophagia in male and female rats were studied. Diazepam reduced eating latency and enhanced the total amount eaten in the test. Picrotoxin increased approach and eating latencies and reduced amount eaten, females being more sensitive to these actions. Behavioural sensitivity to diazepam was reduced by picrotoxin for approach latency but enhanced for eating latency. These findings are discussed in connection with the GABA hypothesis of the actions of benzodiazepines.