Examining the role of oxytocin in the interoceptive effects of 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ‘ecstasy’) using a drug discrimination paradigm in the rat
ABSTRACT3,4‐Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA, ‘ecstasy’) use results in distinctive mood changes of a prosocial nature, most likely through its enhancement of serotonin (5HT) neurotransmission. Activation of 5HT‐1A postsynaptic receptors has been shown to stimulate the release of oxytocin in the central nervous system where it regulates aspects of mood and behavior. Using a drug discrimination paradigm, we examined whether modulation of oxytocin receptor activity would affect conditioned behavioral responses to MDMA. Male and female Sprague Dawley rats (n = 24) were trained to reliably differentiate between MDMA and a related stimulant, amphetamine (AMP), and saline using a three‐lever drug discrimination paradigm. The extent to which substitution with carbetocin (an oxyto...
Anaphylactic Reactions Possible From Bee Pollen Supplements
Although many people take bee pollen as a health supplement, it can cause severe anaphylactic reactions. However, most people are unaware of the risks, states an article published in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal). A case study in the journal illuminates the possible hazards of ingesting bee pollen. A 30-year-old woman with seasonal allergies but no history of allergies to food, drugs, insects or latex had an anaphylactic reaction after taking bee pollen. She had swelling of the eyelids, lips and throat, difficulty swallowing, hives and other life-threatening symptoms... (Source: Health News from Medical News Today)
