Antipsychotic-like effect of agomelatine in a rodent model

Abstract

Antipsychotic-like effect of agomelatine in a rodent modelObjective: Agomelatine is a naphthalene bioisostere of melatonin. Melatonin is involved in several neurophysiological systems; nevertheless, data about the relationship between melatonin and psychosis such as schizophrenia are limited and contradictory. In this study, we examined the antipsychotic-like effects of agomelatine in a rodent model. Method: In this study, we evaluated the effect of agomelatine on novelty-induced rearing behavior and apomorphine-induced stereotypical behavior in male rats. Agomelatine (20 and 40mg/kg, i.p.), chlorpromazine (1mg/kg, i.p.), or isotonic NaCl (1mL/kg, i.p.) were administered to four groups of rats (n=6), respectively. An hour later, apomorphine (2mg/kg, s.c.) was administered to each rat. Results: Our results showed that either dose of agomelatine decreased rearing behavior in rats significantly, in a dose dependent manner. Agomelatine also decreased the stereotypical behaviour scores like chlorpromazine did. Conclusion: We conclude that agomelatine has beneficial effects on rearing and stereotypical behaviour, which were accepted to be indicators of antipsychotic effect.

Alopecia associated with agomelatine use: a case report

“…Agomelatine that represents an innovative approach to treating depression is a selective melatonergic MT1/MT2 receptor agonist and serotonin 5-HT2c and 5-HT2b receptor antagonist [2]. It is thought that antidepressant activity of agomelatine is associated with the synergy between both types of receptors, which are parts of the circadian rhythm, while generally antidepressants act via the inhibition of the reuptake of serotonin and noradrenaline and result in increases in serotonin and noradrenaline in the central nervous system [3]. Agomelatine has shown to be as effective which is similar to that of standard antidepressants in patients with major depressive disorders [4].…”