The effect of β-phenethylamine upon spontaneous motor activity in mice: A dual effect on locomotor activity

Abstract

The effect of intraperitoneal injections of β-phenethylamine on spontaneous motor activity in mice has been examined. Doses 75 mg/kg and higher produced a biphasic type of activity. A first phase of increased activity occurred about 5 min after injection, and a second about 30 min after injection. Pharmacological examination of these curves showed the first peak to be an indirect effect requiring newly synthesized noradrenaline, while the second peak appeared to be caused by a direct action. Thus it was not affected by reserpine, α-methyldopa, protriptyline, desipramine, disulfiram or α-methyl-p-tyrosine. These results suggest that phenethylamine differs from amphetamine in its effect on spontaneous motor activity.