This study is an investigation of the central effects of vasopressin in man, as this hormone proved able to modify learning processes in animals and was applied successfully to post-traumatic, amnesic patients. Electrophysiological techniques were used to assess the effects of lysine-vasopressin (LVP) given by nasal spray (7 and 14 IU) on night sleep pattern (12 subjects), auditory evoked potentials (AEP; 26 subjects), and contingent negative variation (CNV; 26 subjects). Night sleep EEG was not modified to a great extent: in particular REM sleep did not undergo any change after LVP. Nor were AEPs modified, either in the 6-hour period following drug administration or 1 week after; CNV, however, reacted in a significant manner 6 h after drug intake, and the modifications were still present after 1 week. LVP did not affect CNV amplitude itself but its evolution through time, as CNV habituation was prevented. Such effects are discussed with regard to the neurochemical mechanisms of vasopressin action and CNV genesis.

Keywords:
Lysine-vasopressin, Night sleep EEG, Auditory evoked potentials, Contingent negative variation
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© 1982 S. Karger AG, Basel
1982
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