Impulsivity, Aggression, and Neuroendocrine Responses to Serotonergic Stimulation in Substance Abusers

• NCJ Number: 129461
• Journal: Biological Psychiatry Volume: 25 Dated: (1989) Pages: 1049-1066
• Author(s): D H Fishbein; D Lozovsky; J H Jaffe
• Date Published: 1989
• Length: 18 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/; NCJRS Photocopy Services
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The neuroendocrine and psychological responses of 24 volunteer substance abusers with differing levels of aggressiveness and impulsivity to the oral administration of an indirect serotonin agonist fenfluramine (60 mg) or placebo given in a double-blind crossover design were examined.

Abstract

Baseline plasma prolactin (PRL) levels were greater in the groups with higher levels of self-reported aggressiveness and impulsivity. When adjusted for the baseline, PRL and cortisol responses 180 minutes after fenfluramine administration were significantly elevated in subjects with higher levels of aggressiveness and impulsivity. Peak cortisol levels were correlated with impulsivity. PRL and cortisol responses to fenfluramine were more strongly correlated with impulsivity than aggressiveness. The more impulsive subjects reported a decrease in subjective states of depression, hostility, and anxiety after drug treatment. The study findings support the hypothesis of altered serotonergic activity in aggressive and impulsive behaviors. 54 references, 2 tables, and 11 figures (Author abstract modified)