Chronic and Sub-acute Effects of 3,4-methylenedioxy methamphetamine (MDMA) on Spatial Memory and Passive Avoidance Learning in Wistar Rats

Introduction: In the recent years, the use of several drugs such as cocaine and morphine has reduced, but the use of "club drugs" has increased in many countries. 3, 4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) which has known as ‘ecstasy’ among people has many harmful effects on serotonergic system in the brain. This system is responsible for learning and memory. In this study, we tested sub-acute and chronic effects of MDMA on spatial memory in the Morris water maze (MWM) task and passive avoidance tasks.  Methods: 18 Adult male wistar rats (200-250 g) were given single or multiple injections of MDMA (10 mg/kg, IP) . Learning and spatial memory functions were assessed using passive avoidance and Morris water maze (MWM) tasks, respectively. Data was analyzed by SPSS 16 software and one- way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test.  Results: The results showed that sub-acute and chronic administration of MDMA have adverse effects on escape latency, traveled distance and avoidance learning in the rats. The changes were more significant in sub-acute group.  Conclusion: These data suggest that MDMA treatment impairs learning and memory performances that are more extensive in sub-acute group.