Neuropharmacological modification of male sexual behavior in rats

We studied the dynamics of gaining sexual experience and the parameters of sexual behavior in sexually mature albino rat males subjected to pharmacological modifications of the intensity of catecholamine catabolism or the state of dopamine receptors. A monoamine oxidase inhibitor, nialamide, slowed down gaining of sexual experience and noticeably inhibited all components of the copulative act. A blocker of dopamine receptors, haloperidol, increased the variability of manifestations of the sexual activity, suppressed the motivational component of mating, but accelerated one of the components of copulative behavior (intromission). Possible mechanisms of the influence exerted by modulation of the activity of the monoaminergic systems on male sexual behavior are discussed.