Evaluation of Anxiolytic Activity of Ondansetron in mice models — An Animal Experimental Research

Abstract

Background: Anxiety and depression are the common mental disorders, which affect the general population upto 15%, once at their life span and an important reason of disability in world with high impact on social-economic status of affected persons. The Benzodiazepines preferred for the treatment of generalized anxiety as they provide immediate relief, however the high potential for abuse and dependence, limits the utilization of Benzodiazepines. Literature suggests that increased serotonergic neurotransmission in synapse leads to allosteric modulation of serotonergic system by 5-HT1A partial agonists and with the blockade of 5-HT3 receptor by its antagonists develop anti anxiety effect which may serve as alternatives to Benzodiazepines as anxiolytic because of lesser side effects and better tolerability with favourable pharmacological records in patients. Objective: To evaluate anxiolytic activity of ondansetron in mice model. Material and methods: Male Swiss albino mice (20-30 g BW) were divided in five groups. Study was undertaken after approval from IAEC, People’s College of Medical Science and Research Centre, Bhopal. Animals received intraperitoneally either Ondansetron (0.1, 0 .5 and 1mg/kg), diazepam (1mg/kg) in intervention group or vehicle (1ml dw) in control. Elevated plus maze and hole board test were used to compare the effects of ondansetron with diazepam for evaluation of anxiolytic activity. In addition, assessment of drugs on motor activity was done by photo actometer. Result: Ondansetron exhibited significant anxiolytic activity at 0.5, 1.0 mg/kg BW dose. Comparison between groups shows significant variation (p<0.05) in dose dependent manner. Locomotor activity was not significantly changed by ondansetron at these test doses. Conclusion: Ondansetron was found to exhibit significant anxiolytic activity in mice models. Further researches are required for elucidating the mechanism and to explore its role in psychopharmacology and its therapeutic application in various psychiatric disorders including anxiety. Keywords: Ondansetron, Anxiolytic, Benzodiazepines