The effects of various agonists and antagonists of both alpha and beta adrenoceptors on the acquisition of avoidance behaviour were investigated in the rat. Clonidine, a selective agonist of alpha 2 adrenoceptors depressed avoidance acquisition whilst yohimbine, an antagonist of these receptors produced an opposite effect. Prazosin which showed postsynaptic alpha 1 adrenoceptor blocking activity reduced avoidance behaviour. A similar effect was produced by propranolol, a non-selective antagonist of beta adrenoceptors. On the other hand, salbutamol preferentially stimulating beta 2 adrenoceptors facilitated avoidance behaviour. In general, the results show a fairly good correlation between avoidance acquisition and efficacy of noradrenergic neurotransmission.

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acquisition of avoidance behaviour effect adrenoceptors adrenoceptor noradrenergic neurotransmission

M, Obersztyn W, Kostowski,.Noradrenergic agonists and antagonists: effects on avoidance behaviour in rats.. 34 (4),401-7.

M, Obersztyn W, Kostowski,"Noradrenergic agonists and antagonists: effects on avoidance behaviour in rats." 34

M, Obersztyn W, Kostowski,"Noradrenergic agonists and antagonists: effects on avoidance behaviour in rats."