Beta-phenylethylamine (PEA): an endogenous anxiogen? Three series of experimental data.

Like the anxiogenic drugs caffeine, pentylenetetrazole, and yohimbine, the endogenous neuroactive monoamine beta-phenylethylamine (PEA) is effective in three tests for anxiogens in mice. In a social interaction test it reduced both the number and duration of contacts. In a conflict situation test (a dark-light chamber) it reduced the number of transitions between dark and light compartments. Diazepam, a standard anxiolytic, prevented both effects of PEA. Intracerebroventricular administration of PEA induced generalized clonic seizures which were antagonized by various anxiolytics but not by the tested doses of butyrophenone neuroleptics and standard anticonvulsants effective in other tests for convulsants.