Evaluation of the cognitive and sleep modulating properties of paracetamol in mice

Abstract

Cognition and sleep are important for optimum functioning of the central nervous system. Paracetamol, a commonly used analgesic and antipyretic agent is thought to modulate cognition and sleep in humans. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of paracetamol on cognitive and sleep indices in mice. Cognitive effect of paracetamol (250-1000 mg/kg) was evaluated using the elevated plus maze and novel object recognition tests while the diazepam and ketamine induced sleep models were used to assess its sleep modifying effects. Paracetamol significantly (p<0.05) decreased transfer latency in the elevated plus maze test and increased the time spent exploring the novel object. Onset and duration of sleep were increased in both the diazepam and ketamine induced test. Results suggest a modulatory role of paracetamol in cognition and sleep. Keywords: Elevated plus maze; Diazepam; Ketamine; Novel object recognition test; Paracetamol