Abstract

EVALUATION OF ANTIDEPRESSANT ACTIVITY OF ANNONA SQUAMOSA L. SHOOT EXTRACT USING ANIMAL MODELS

Kanakam Vijayabhaskar*, Bairi Padma, Mathukumalli Sai Laxmi and Naini Sravan Kumar

Abstract

Objective: Annona squamosa L. (Annonaceae) is a small ever green tree is cultivated throughout india for its fruits. This plant has been used for the treatment of a variety of diseases. hyperthyroidism and lipid-peroxidation. The plant also posses analgesic activity, antiinflammatory activity, anti-microbial activity, cytotoxic activity, antioxidant activity, anti-lipidimic activity, anti-ulcer activity, molluscicidal properties, genotoxic effect, vasorelaxant activity, antitumour, hepatoprotective activity, larvicidal activity, insecticidal activity, anthelmintic activity, etc Methods: This study was undertaken to evaluate the possible antidepressant effect of Annona squamosa L. Shoot extract (ASSE) using Tail suspension test(TST) & Forced swim test (FST). 36 albino rats of either sex weighing between 200-250gm were randomly selected and divided into 6 equal groups. Group-I (control) received polyethyleneglycol (1ml/100gm), Group-II, III & IV received ASSE in doses of 100,200,400 mg/kg orally (P.O.) respectively. Group V & VI (positive control) received Fluoxetine & Imipramine at doses of 20mg/kg & 15mg/kg p.o respectively. Drug treatment was given for seven & fourteen successive days. 60 minutes after last dose of drug or standard the immobility period was recorded. Results: ASSE produced significant antidepressant like effect at dose of 200 & 400 mg/kg administered for 7 & 14 consecutive days as indicated by reduction in immobility times of Rat in TST & FST (P

Keywords: Annona squamosa L., Forced swim test, Tail suspension test, Antidepressants, Immobolity time.