Effectiveness of Diazepam and Methylphenidate in Multiple Dosages in Modifying Infant Trauma Effects

Abstract

Albino rats in independent studies were administered varying dosages of diazepam and methylphenidate prior to a daily shock traumatization experience in infancy. All animals were tested on avoidance conditioning in adulthood. Both drugs were found to be effective in modifying the typically obtained shock deficit. The results failed to substantiate that increased dosage level resulted in more effective modification of trauma effects. Delayed consequences of methylphenidate administration included modification of central nervous system reactivity as manifested in quicker reaction times and growth depression as manifested in lessened body weights in this group in comparison to the diazepam group. An additional feature of the study was the finding that male and female animals responded differently to the drug and shock experiences.