Attenuation of pentylenetetrazol kindling of epileptogenesis in rats by dopaminergic agents

Kindling model of seizure development was induced in the rats by chronic administration of pentylenetetrazol. On chronic administration of dopamine receptor agonists such as l-dopa, amphetamine and amantadine, the average convulsive score with pentylenetetrazol was attenuated in biphasic manner. Initial protection from coiivulsions changed to higher convulsive scores. Chronic administration of dopamine receptor blocking agent such as haloperidol, delayed the devejopment of kindled seizures in contrast to control rats. Metoclopramide, another dopaminergic receptor blocking agent did not attenuate the kindled seizures. These observations lcnd support to the hypothesis that dopamine plays a role in seizure suppression.