Effect of dextro-amphetamine on reticulo-preoptic interactions in "encéphale isolé" cats.

Intravenous administration of a single dose of dextro-amphetamine (1 mg/kg) in the "encéphale isolé" cat significantly increased amplitude of the P50 and N110 components of the preoptic potential evoked by the stimulation of the mesencephalic reticular formation and decreased all components of the mesencephalic reticular formation potential evoked by preoptic stimulation. Concomitantly, a state of increased and persistent arousal response was found. These findings support the idea that during wakefulness there is a reticular facilitation and a preoptic inhibition.