Behavioral and Electroencephalographic Effects of Zopiclone, a Cyclopyrrolone Derivative

Showa Ueki, Shigenori Watanabe, Tsuneyuki Yamamoto, Yasufumi Kataoka, Shigenobu Shibata, Kazuhiko Shibata, Hisashi Ohta, Takao Shimazoe, Hirosuke Kawamoto

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

16 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Behavioral effects of zopiclone were investigated in mice and rats and compared with the data on diazepam, nitrazepam and flurazepam. The electro encephalographic effect of the drug was also examined in unanesthetized rabbits with chronic electrode implants and compared with that of diazepam. The present results indicate that zopiclone possesses pharmacological properties qualitatively similar to benzodiazepines, which are characterized by potent anticonflict and antiaggressive effects and much weaker anticonvulsant, muscle relaxant, ataxiogenic, sedative and anesthesia potentiating effects; the properties of this drug were com pared with those of diazepam, nitrazepam and flurazepam. Zopiclone suppressed the EEG arousal responses and inhibited afterdischarges induced by electrical stimulation of the hippocampus and amygdala. The effects of zopiclone on EEG and afterdischarges were approximately 1/10 those of diazepam.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)309-326
Number of pages18
JournalThe Japanese Journal of Pharmacology
Volume43
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 1987
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Pharmacology

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