Effects of naloxone on ethanol and acetaldehyde-induced electroencephalographic changes in rabbits.

Rabbits treated with a single IV dose of ethanol, 0.6 g/kg, exhibited rapid EEG synchronization and behavioral changes that were reversed and, in part, prevented by the opiate antagonist, naloxone, 40 micrograms/kg. The continuous intracerebroventricular infusion of acetaldehyde, 10 or 120 micrograms/min. caused biphasic changes with EEG activation and severe bradycardia followed by overt synchrony during the post-infusion period. The results of the present study provide further evidence for the ability of naloxone to counteract some acute effects of ethanol. Moreover, they do not support a role of acetaldehyde itself as mediator of EEG changes associated with mild alcohol intoxication.