Antiparkinsonian effects of BAM-1110, a novel ergoline derivative, in MPTP-treated cynomolgus monkeys.

BAM-1110 [(5R,8R,10R)-6-methyl-8-(1,2,4-triazol-l-ylmethyl) ergoline maleate] is a newly synthesized dopamine agonist that produces little anorexic side effects (nausea and vomiting). The current study examines the effects of BAM-1110 on parkinsonian symptoms in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-treated monkeys, an animal model of Parkinson's disease. First, a significant antiparkinsonian effect of apomorphine hydrochloride (0.3 mg/kg given subcutaneously) was confirmed in these animals. BAM-1110 (0.1, 0.3, and 1 mg/kg subcutaneously) relieved parkinsonian symptoms in a dose-dependent manner. Significant effects were observed at doses of 0.3 and 1 mg/kg and lasted for at least 3 h. BAM-1110, at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg that produced the submaximal antiparkinsonian effect, did not induce significant abnormal behaviors such as hyperactivity and stereotyped behaviors. Significant stereotyped behaviors were observed at 1 mg/kg of BAM-1110. Apomorphine induced hyperactive and stereotyped behaviors in parallel with its antiparkinsonian effect. BAM-1110 appears to be a potentially useful dopamine agonist to treat Parkinson's disease because of its relatively weak drug-induced hyperactive disturbances and anorexic side effects.