Modafinil Facilitates Performance on a Delayed Nonmatching to Position Swim Task in Rats
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
8-1-2004
Department
Psychology
Abstract
Modafinil is a wake-promoting drug approved by the FDA for the treatment of narcolepsy. Recent evidence suggests that modafinil may improve learning and memory processes. To further evaluate possible cognitive properties associated with modafinil, male Sprague-Dawley rats were tested in a delayed nonmatching to position (DNMTP) task. A modified water maze allowed animals to make one of two choices for the location of the escape platform. Each trial consisted of two swims. On the information swim (IS), only one choice was open to the animal for escape. One minute later, a choice swim (CS) presented the animal with two choices with the escape platform in the opposite position. There were 10 trials per day for 10 days. Rats received 0, 30, 55, or 100 mg/kg ip of modafinil 30 min prior to testing. Locomotor activity was also assessed. Animals that received 5 5 and 100 mg/kg made significantly more correct choices, indicating that higher doses of modafinil learned the task faster than did controls. While animals that received 100 mg/kg did exhibit an enhancement of locomotor activity, this effect did not result in more efficient goal-directed behavior. The evidence is consistent with previous research showing that modafinil facilitates cognitive processes. (C) 2004 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
Publication Title
Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior
Volume
78
Issue
4
First Page
735
Last Page
741
Recommended Citation
Ward, C. P.,
Harsh, J. R.,
York, K. M.,
Stewart, K. L.,
McCoy, J. G.
(2004). Modafinil Facilitates Performance on a Delayed Nonmatching to Position Swim Task in Rats. Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior, 78(4), 735-741.
Available at: https://aquila.usm.edu/fac_pubs/3084