Rivastigmine affects Memory Disturbances in Rats with Abdominal Hypertension

The aim of our study was to investigate whether artificially increased intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) in rats lowers their cognitive potential and Rivastigmine is able to diminish this disturbance. Three groups of male Wistar rats were used: 1^st saline; 2^nd IIAP to 25mmHg and 3^rd IAP + Rivastigmine. In shuttle-box test the following parameters was observed: number of avoidances, escapes and intertrial crossings. Saline group increased the number of avoidances on learning session and kept it in memory retention. The group with IAP decreased the avoidances and intertrial crossings during learning and memory tests. The group with model of IAP and rivastigmine increased avoidances and intertrial crossings on learning and memory tests compared to group with model. Our results allow us to conclude that high intra-abdominal pressure impairs learning and memory processes in rats. Rivastigmine improves cognitive functions in rats with intra-abdominal and subsequent cerebral hypoxia.