The effects of methaqualone on the seizure susceptibility of mice.

Methaqualone produces dose- and time-dependent decreases in susceptibility to electrically, chemically, and sound-induced seizures. The antagonism of methaqualone to electroconvulsive shock can be dissociated from its effects on temperature regulation and plasma corticosterone. Studies with SKF525A, a drug known to block enzymes in the liver that metabolize drugs, suggest that methaqualone, rather than a metabolite produced in the liver, is responsible for its anticonvulsant effects. Tolerance to the anticonvulsant effects of methaqualone is also demonstrated.