Abstract: AIM: To observe the effects of xingnaojing (Xnji) injection on learning and memory disorder induced by ethanol.METHODS: The memory impairment was induced by ig ethanol in mice or rats only one time or continuously for 30 days.The Morris water maze, “Y” maze, and step through methods were used to test the function of learning and memory.RESULTS: Xnji (14,7 ml·kg^-1) could prevent the impairments of spatial learning ability induced by ethanol given only one time in rats;Xnji (1, 2 ml·kg^-1) could promote spatial learning ability and memory acquisition impaired by ethanol given continuously in mice.CONCLUSION: Xnji can prevent and treat the memory disorder in acute and chronic ethanol intoxication.

Key words: xingnaojing injection, ethanol, Morris water maze, learning, memory