EFFECTS OF TIANEPTINE IN ANIMAL-MODELS OF DEPRESSION

The aim of this study was to analyse the behaviour effects of tianeptine, an activator of the serotonin neural recapture, in three animal models of depression: immobilization stress, acquired resignation and obligatory swimming. Acute or chronic administration of tianeptine provoked effects comparable to those of the classic antidepressants (tricyclic or atypic). Tianeptine decreased or prevented exploration inhibition induced by immobilization stress, the number of escape failures occurring in a session of adverse and uncontrolable shocks and immobility time following obligatory swimming in a confined space. The relationship between these positive effects of tianeptine and the serotonin system are discussed.