Reduction in the level of immobilization in forced swim test and ethanol intake in rats by oxygen therapy

Abstract Experiments replicated the previous finding that rats with high immobilization time in the forced swim test (passive rats) consumed more 15% ethanol solution in a free choice situation with tap water than rats with active behavior (active rats). Exposure of passive rats to oxygen under normal and elevated (2 ata) pressure resulted in the decrease in immobilization scores in the forced swim test as well as reduction in alcohol consumption and preference.