[abstract] THE BEHAVIORAL TOXICITY OF SUDAFED, BENADRYL, AND DRAMAMINE UNDER HYPERBARIC AIR.

Abstract

Recent studies appearing in the literature have indicated that both the physiological and behavioral effects of drugs undergo some changes under hyperbaric conditions. Of particular interest is the increased behavioral toxicity that occurs with some compounds and how this could affect the performance and safety of a diver. The present study evaluated the behavioral effects of several representative compounds that are commonly used by divers. Albino rats were trained, using operant techniques, to emit steady-state performance baselines on a task requiring high work output. Dose-response curves were obtained for Sudafed (a decongestant), Benadryl (an antihistamine), and Dramamine (an anti-motion-sickness preparation) at 1, 3, 5, and 7 ATA with the animals breathing compressed air. None of the three compounds produced significant performance changes at the recommended dose levels, even under pressures to 7 ATA. At relatively high dose levels (5 to 10 times normal) performance decrements were readily apparent for Sudafed and Benadryl; these changes were accentuated at the 3-, 5-, and 7-ATA pressure levels. High doses of Dramamine, however, did not appear to influence performance levels.