Effects of moclobemide on forced-swimming stress and brain monoamine levels in mice

Moclobemide [Ro 11-1163, p-chloro-N-(2-morpholinoethyl)benzamide, AURORIX] is known as an antidepressant and a reversible inhibitor of type A monoamine oxidase. In the present study, a forced swimming test was applied to mice to evaluate behavioral and neurochemical effects of this drug. During forced swimming posture of immobility, a typical behavioral change, was observed, and biochemical analysis of the brain revealed significant changes in the monoamine levels. The norepinephrine concentration was reduced, while that of its product was increased, indicating increase in norepinephrine turnover. The stress increased the levels of dopamine, serotonin, and their metabolites. Moclobemide significantly improved the immobility elicited by the test, and it could prevent the changes in the turnover of norepinephrine, dopamine, and serotonin induced by the stress. These results suggest that moclobemide may improve the behavioral changes induced by the forced swimming through its effects on monoamine metabolism.