The effects of piracetam on morphine-induced amnesia and analgesia: the possible contribution of central opiatergic mechanisms on the antiamnestic effect of piracetam

The involvement of opiatergic mechanisms on the antiamnestic effects of piracetam was investigated in mice. First, the effects of piracetam and naloxone on the amnesia induced by scopolamine, electroconvulsive shock and morphine were evaluated by using elevated plus maze apparatus. Second, the effects of electroconvulsive shock and piracetam on the antinociceptive action of morphine were tested by means of radiant heat tail-flick experiment. Piracetam and naloxone reversed the drug- or electrically-induced amnestic effects. On the other hand, electroconvulsive shock treatment enhanced the antinociceptive effect of morphine while piracetam decreased the same activity. These results suggest an important role of the opiatergic system on the learning and memory process as well as on the antiamnestic effect of piracetam.