No abstract

In a double-blind, double crossover experiment, 18 healthy young men received over 3-day periods either 100 mg atenolol, 80 mg propranolol, or placebo. The subjects underwent various motor and cognitive tests 18 h after each last dose had been taken. Propranolol significantly increased variability of a choice reaction-time task. Scores on various subjective rating scales showed that propranolol had a larger mood elevating effect than atenolol. Heart rate and blood pressure were significantly reduced 24h after atenolol medication; these effects were absent or reduced after propranolol had been given.

The decision and movement time components of a visual choice reaction-time task were examined using students and visitors to a university exhibition. The results of two separate studies showed that women have a faster decision time than men, and that men have a faster movement time. Since these two effects are in an opposite direction, no sex differences in the mean choice reaction times were found. It is concluded that on this particular task the cognitive performance of women is superior.

Three motor-skill tests related to driving ability were given to 21 healthy young volunteers after administration of various combinations of amitriptyline, placebo, and alcohol. It was found that the tricylic antidepressant added to the deleterious effects of alcohol.

No abstract