[The anxiolytic effect of ondansetron and its capacity to eliminate the benzodiazepine abstinence syndrome in rats].

Ondansetron (GR38032F, zofran)--a specific blocker of 5-HT3-receptors in a dose range of 0.05 to 0. mg/kg causes an anxiolytic effect in experiments on mice and rats on a model of elevated plus maze. The drug does not produce a sedative and myorelaxant effect. A 0.05 mg/kg dose of ondansetron reduces the level of anxiety and convulsive manifestations which are induced by discontinuation of long-term diazepam administration. The results of the study bear evidence of selectivity of the anxiolytic effect of ondansetron in intact animals and its effectiveness in rats with diazepam abstinence.