Anxiolytic and memory improving effects of moclobemide.

The anxiolytic and memory enhancing effects of moclobemide (p-chloro-N-(2-morphinoethyl)benzamide, CAS 71320-77-9, Ro 11-1163), a reversible and selective monoamine A oxidase inhibitor, were investigated in rats. It was found that the drug had an anxiolytic activity lasting in chronic experiments over 2 weeks. The used dose of the drug did not change animal locomotion in activity cages. In memory experiments (food finding time in maze), moclobemide exerted a favorable effect only after a single administration. In rats with scopolamine-impaired memory, moclobemide attenuated the effects of scopolamine in single and chronic experiments.