Evaluation of anticonvulsant drugs in DBA/2 mice with sound-induced seizures.

The syndrome of sound-induced seizures in DBA/2 mice is described. Protection against seizure responses is provided by intraperitoneal administration of conventional anticonvulsant drugs with benzodiazepines being the most potent, and valproate, ethosuximide and trimethadione the least potent. Protection is also provided by intracerebroventricular administration of anticonvulsant drugs. GABAergic agents, antagonists of excitation due to dicarboxylic amino acids, alpha 2-noradrenergic agonists, and dopamine agonists all provide protection against the seizure responses. There is, however, no conclusive biochemical evidence that the syndrome is attributable to a defect in one or more of these neurotransmitter systems.