Erowid References Database
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Braida D, Pozzi M, Cavallini R, Sala M.
“3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy) impairs eight-arm radial maze performance and arm entry pattern in rats”.
Behav Neurosci. 2002;116(2):298-304..
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Abstract
The recreational use of 3,4 methylenedioxymethamphetamine (ecstasy) in humans has been associated with memory impairment. The present study examined whether ecstasy impairs short- and long-term working memory and the pattern of arm entries in rats tested in the 8-arm radial maze with a 2-hr delay. After completing the training session, the rats were given a single dose of ecstasy (1, 2, or 3 mg/kg ip) 20 min before the test. The highest dose slightly affected short-term working memory. Under conditions of delay, there was a progressive deficit in long-term working memory, starting from 1 mg/kg. Under both test conditions, 2 and 3 mg/kg flattened the pattern of arm entry. None of the doses caused hyperlocomotion or stereotypy in the radial maze. These findings suggest that acute ecstasy mainly affects the long-term components of working memory and disrupts the pattern of arm entry in a way similar to serotonergic agents.
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