Study of CNS Depressant and Behavioral Effects ofCyclopyrrolone Compound Zopiclone in Different Animal Models

Objectives: To evaluateCNS depressant and behavioral effects of zopiclone in comparison with BZD (lorazepam) by using different animal models. Methods: Pharmacological assays used for evaluating CNS Depressant activity are righting reflex test, pentobarbitone sleeping time potentiation, Rota rod apparatus and Incline plane performance test in albinomice. Open field apparatus (OFT) was used to study behavioral effects. Data analyzed by student’s unpaired-‘t’ test and p<0.05 considered significant. Results: Zopiclone (7.5mg/kg p.o.) did not inhibit the Righting reflex however significant (p<0.001) potentiation of Pentobarbitone sleeping time and decreased fall off time inRota rod aswell as inclined plane test (P<0.05, P<0.02 respectively) were observed. In OFT increased in exploration (P<0.001) suggestive of anxiolysis was observed. Conclusions: Zopiclone (7.5mg/kg p.o.) has weak CNS Depressant activity and more selective behavioral activity compared to BZDs.