Behavioral sensitization and cross-sensitization between methylphenidate amphetamine, and 3-4, methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in female SD rats
European Journal of Pharmacology April 28, 2011 Pamela B. Yang, Kristal D. Atkins, N. Dafny 42 citations
Amphetamine, methylphenidate (Ritalin), and MDMA (ecstasy) all increase movement in female rats after a single dose. Repeated administration of moderate doses of amphetamine or methylphenidate leads to behavioral sensitization, a marker of dependence potential. MDMA produces sensitization in some rats but tolerance in others. Cross-sensitization occurs between methylphenidate and amphetamine, but MDMA does not cross-sensitize or cross-tolerate with amphetamine, suggesting MDMA acts through different mechanisms.