Enhancement of IgE Antibody Formation in the Rabbit by Adrenergic Antagonists

Abstract
The effects of adrenergic antagonists on the humoral immune response of rabbits to egg albumin was studied. Propranolol, a β-adrenergic antagonist, when administered at a dosage of 20 mg/kg of body weight, enhanced both passive hemagglutinating and IgE (passive cutaneous anaphylaxis) antibody formation. Phenoxybenzamine, an α-antagonist, at 0.4–40 mg/kg had a similar adjuvant effect. A marked delay in the immune response was noted with high dosages of phenoxybenzamine. Possible mechanisms of the adjuvant effects of these drugs are discussed.

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