Abstract
Five days administration of Li (Li2CO3 2.5 mEq/kg, i.p. twice daily for 4 days, followed by one injection on the 5th day) to rats did not significantly alter brain serotonin (5-HT) levels. Animals appeared somewhat sedated but showed considerable exploratory and rearing behavior in new circumstances. Turnover rate of brain 5-HT as measured from the accumulation after inhibiting monoamine oxidase was decreased by repeated administration of Li. Furthermore, Li lessened the depletion rate of brain 5-HT by reserpine. These results suggest that certain of the effects of Li on manic states can be attributed to the reduced functional activity of brain 5-HT neurons.
