Neuroprotective effect of reboxetine on sensorimotor function and norepinephrine levels in a model of intracerebral hemorrhage

Background: Hemorrhagic intracortical lesions produce persistent sensorimotor deficits. Reboxetine, a selective norepinephrine (NE) reuptake inhibitor, has emerged as a potential pharmacological strategy to promote functional recovery. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of acute and chronic reboxetine administration on motor performance and NE levels in a rat model of intracortical injury induced by ferrous chloride (FeCl2). Material and methods: Fifty-seven male Wistar rats were assigned to control or lesion groups, receiving a FeCl2 injection into the right primary motor cortex. Animals received reboxetine under acute or chronic treatment regimens. Sensorimotor performance was assessed on days 1 and 3 post-surgery, whereas NE levels in the pons and dentate gyrus were quantified on day 3 post-surgery. Results: Both treatment regimens reduced sensorimotor deficits. Acute reboxetine administration improved motor performance by day 3 and increased pontine NE levels exclusively in the contralateral hemisphere. In contrast, chronic treatment accelerated recovery from day 1 and increased pontine NE levels bilaterally. In addition, sensorimotor performance positively correlated with pontine NE concentrations in both regimens. Conclusions: Reboxetine promotes motor recovery following hemorrhagic intracortical injury. Chronic administration is more effective, producing earlier behavioral improvement directly associated with greater pontine NE availability.