This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing theresources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject andinvestigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source,and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed isfor the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator.Few pharmacological interventions for self-injurious behavior (SIB) in laboratory primates have been thoroughly evaluated. As part of an ongoing long-term evaluation of naltrexone HC (compounded into a palatable syrup at 10mg/ml), behavioral data and incidence of wounding has been recorded for 12 caged subadult and adult male rhesus macaques to date. In addition, the incidence and severity of wounding is being used as sole dependent variables for assessing this intervention in an additional five male subjects that rarely or never display self-biting behavior. Physical exams, complete blood counts, blood chemistry, urinalysis, and behavioral observation totaling 153 h were performed before beginning treatment and at regular intervals throughout the duration of the study. Animals were dosed at 3.2mg/kg orally once every 24 hours. Individuals were reassessed and dosing intervals were gradually increased every two to four weeks, with a maximum interval of 96 hours. Dramatic reductions in the frequency of self-biting were observed within the first week of treatment for several subjects. Over all subjects studied behaviorally, rates of self-biting were significantly lower with both the daily and every-other-day dosing. Bouts were less frequent, and bout length was unaffected. Naltrexone did not alter levels of other behaviors, indicating no generalized or sedating effect of the medication. Incidence of self-wounding was markedly lower among all subjects studied. Results suggest a possible influence of rearing background; the most dramatic improvements were seen in animals mother-reared in a social setting. Environmental as opposed to endogenous triggers may be more prevalent in nursery-reared and socially-deprived macaques. Continued research will evaluate this possibility, as well as other dosing levels and long-term efficacy.
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