Comparative effects of cocaine and pseudococaine on EEG activities, cardiorespiratory functions, and self-administration behavior in the rhesus monkey

The effects of cocaine and pseudococaine on the EEGs, heart and respiratory rates, and self-administration behavior were studied in rhesus monkeys. An intravenous injection of cocaine (2.5 and 4.0 mg/kg) in the monkey produced low-voltage fast waves (LVFWs) in the EEGs and behavioral hyperexcitation accompanied by marked increases in the heart and respiratory rates with mydriasis and excessive salivation. In contrast, pseudococaine produced high-voltage slow waves (HVSWs) in the EEGs and behavioral depression accompanied by the same symptoms of the autonomic functions as those produced by cocaine. Both isomers were self-administered by the monkeys. During cocaine self-administration sessions, the animals showed hyperexcitation in their overall behavior, while with pseudococaine they showed almost normal behavioral responses. These results suggest that cocaine produced excitatory effects and pseudococaine inhibitory effects on the EEGs and behavior. Both isomers stimulate the heart and respiratory rates, and were self-administered by the monkeys.