Effects of Adrenergic and Cholinergic Drugs Injected by Intra-Carotid Route on Electrical Activity of Brain

Abstract

Summary

1) The effects on cerebral electrical activity (EEG) of acetylcholine, eserine, epinephrine, and amphetamine, injected by intracarotid route, are reported. Non-curarized unanesthetized rabbits and “cerveau isolé” preparation of the same animal were used. 2) In the unanesthetized non-curarized rabbit, acetylcholine, eserine, and amphetamine produced activation of the EEG; epinephrine, however, administered either by intravenous or intracarotid route, does not have the activating effect. 3) In the “cerveau isolé” preparation, acetylcholine does not provoke activation, while eserine and amphetamine are still effective. 4) These results are discussed in connection with the locus and the mechanism of action of the drugs.