The Effects of Angiotensin II and Captopril on Expression of Morphine Withdrawal Signs in Rat

Abstract

The mechanisms of drug dependence and rewarding properties of opiates are not exactly known and several neurotransmitters seem to be involved. It is possible that the rennin-angiotensin system could interact with the opioid system, since it has been shown that angiotensin II(Ang) and ACE inhibitors have analgesic, anticonvulsant and antidepression effects and in some cases they could antagonize the effect of morphine. In the present study, the effect of Ang II and captopril on withdrawal signs was evaluated.