ANALYSIS OF BEHAVIORAL-EFFECTS OF DRUGS

Behavioral pharmacology has largely replaced explanations of the behavioral effects of drugs in terms of hypothetical constructs with descriptions of the environmental or behavioral factors that modify drug effects and by characterization of behavioral mechanisms of drug action. The qualitative and quantitative modulation of behavioral effects of drugs by current and past behavioral and environmental variables has been amply demonstrated. However, fewer studies have been directed toward elucidation of behavioral mechanisms of drug action. The concept of behavioral mechanism implies that drugs can alter behavior in a manner functionally equivalent to the manner in which other variables alter behavior. Owing to the complexity of the determinants of behavior, a host of tactics is required for a comprehensive analysis of the behavioral effects of drugs. Detailed understanding of the various interpretations associated with the results of descriptive and mechanistic studies is essential to the development of adequate accounts of the manner in which drugs affect behavior. Studies elucidating the behavioral or environmental factors that influence the behavioral effects of drugs as well as studies of behavioral mechanisms of drug action may aid other disciplines within pharmacology and the neurosciences by ultimately pinpointing specific behavioral substrates of drug action. This information should greatly facilitate further investigations of the link between behavior and physiological processes as well as provide rational bases for development. Copyright © 1990 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.