Performance of motor associated behavioural tests following chronic nicotine administration

Background: Nicotine has shown potential therapeutic value for neurodegenerative diseases though there are concerns that it may induce behavioural deficits. Purpose: The present study sought to determine the effect of chronic nicotine administration on overall motor functions and coordination. Methods: Forty adult female and male Wistar rats were randomly grouped into 4 groups. Treated groups were administered nicotine via subcutaneous injections at doses of 0.25, 2 and 4 mg/kg body weight for 28 days. Control groups received normal saline. All animals were monitored for the first few minutes after each injection for any observed immediate effect of drug administration. Motor associated behavioural tests performed include: open field test, string test for grip strength and limb impairment, movement initiation and step test. Results: Nicotine induced muscular convulsions within the first 1-5 minutes following daily subcutaneous injections, throughout the period of administration. This was observed to be more severe in females. Nicotine did not produce major alterations in overall motor functions and coordination in both females and males. Conclusion: The present study shows chronic nicotine treatment produces muscular convulsion but no major deficit in overall motor function and coordination and that any observed alterations may just be transient effects.