Metabolic effects of β2-agonists

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Abstract
Catecholamines produce a number of biochemical changes most of which result from stimulation of β2‐receptors. Interest in these metabolic effects has increased recently as a consequence of the concern over the relatively high mortality from acute asthma attacks. In this review the data on the impact of β2‐agonists on glucose production, insulin release and lipolysis are presented. Thereafter the subject of hypokalemia, the mechanism for its production by β2‐agonists and its relevance to cardiac arrhythmias are considered in detail. Finally the fall in plasma magnesium and the possible role of β2‐agonists in the production of lactic acidosis are discussed.