Abstract

In present experimental study, we purposed to research if ambroxol would have beneficial acute effects on PTZ-induced convulsions by EEG records. 48 rats were randomly divided into two groups; group A for EEG recordings and B for behavioral evaluations. Groups A and B determined as; Group A1 and B1 control, Group A2 and B2 saline, Group A3 and B3 10 mg / kg ambroxol and Group A4 and B4 20 mg / kg ambroxol group. Drugs were given intraperitoneally 30 minutes before pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) administration. While 35 mg / kg PTZ was used for EEG recordings and 70 mg / kg PTZ was used for behavioral evaluations. Racine Convulsion Scale (RCS) and "first myoclonic jerk" (FMJ) times were used for the seizure evaluations. Racine’s convulsion scale was significantly lower in control group compared PTZ (70 mg/kg) and saline group (p < 0.001). It was lower in ambroxol hydrochloride group compared with PTZ (70 mg/kg) and saline group (70 mg/kg). FMJ onset time was significantly shorter in ambroxol hydrochloride group compared with PTZ (70 mg/kg) and saline group. Spike percentage EEG recordings were significantly lower in ambroxol hydrochloride group compared with PTZ (70 mg/kg) and saline group (70 mg/kg). The statistical significance increased based on the administration doses of ambroxol hydrochloride. Ambroxol hydrochloride has a positive effect on PTZ-induced convulsions, but by more detailed further experimental and clinical studies, involving advanced biochemical measurements, are needed to understand the exact mechanism of action.

Key words: Epilepsy, ambroxol hydrochloride, pentylenetetrazol, racine convulsion scale, first myoclonic jerk time