PHARMACODYNAMIC COMPARISON OF THE ACUTE EFFECTS OF NOMIFENSINE, AMPHETAMINE AND PLACEBO IN HEALTHY-VOLUNTEERS

  • 1 January 1979
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 17  (1) , 32-37
Abstract
In a double blind cross over tiral the effects of single doses of 100 mg nomifensine [8-Amino-2-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline-hydrogenmaleate], 15 mg racemic amphetamine and placebo were compared in 9 healthy volunteers. Assessments of choice reaction behavior, simple reaction time, critical flicker fusion and attention on continuous calculations were performed together with a series of self rating scales, a side effect list and vital signs before and 90, 180 and 360 min after each administration. While the only significant nomifensine effect was an increase of correct solutions in the continuous calculation task, amphetamine differed from nomifensine and placebo in a number of subjective variables which describe emotional changes typical for drug stimulation. Subjects expressed the will to have amphetamine prescribed for fatigue and loss of drive, but preferences for nomifensine were virtually the same as for placebo. Under amphetamine heart rate and blood pressure were increased and side effects were frequent. Nomifensine showed none of those subjectively pleasant amphetamine effects which are responsible for the reinforcement function leading to amphetamine dependence.

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