A Radioangiographic Study of the Effects of Catecholamines on Uteroplacental Blood Flow in the Rhesus Monkey

Abstract
Placental radioangiographies (2) were performed with a 20-min interval in 10 lightly anesthetized rhesus monkeys. Amniotic and aortic pressures, and the maternal ECG were continuously monitored. Norepinephrine or metaproterenol was administered in a low dose which did not cause general cardiovascular effects, prior to the 2nd angiography. Norepinephrine appeared to cause constriction and metaproterenol, dilatation of the uteroplacental vessels. The effects could be diminished or abolished by an .alpha. or .beta.-adrenergic blocking agent, respectively, and may be caused by stimulation of adrenergic receptors in the uteroplacental vasculature.

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