Role of Alpha-Adrenergic Receptors in Exercise-Induced Bronchoconstriction
- 1 January 1978
- journal article
- research article
- Published by S. Karger AG in Respiration
- Vol. 35 (2) , 78-86
- https://doi.org/10.1159/000193863
Abstract
The role of α-adrenergic receptors in exercise-induced bronchoconstriction (EIB) was studied. 9 asthmatic patients with a marked degree of EIB (group I) and 6 asthmatic patients with no or a less severe EIB (group II) were investigated and compared with 8 healthy control persons. Pulse rate, airway resistance and end-expiratory thoracic gas volume were measured at rest and immediately and 15 min after exercise. Group I subjects showed a significant inhibition of EIB after α-adrenergic blockade with phentolamine (10 mg as aerosol) and after cholinergic blockade with an atropine-ester (60 mg as aerosol). In 7 of 9 patients who had received phentolamine, and in 3 of 6 patients who had received atropine-ester, the EIB was completely suppressed. In group II the administration of propranolol (40 mg orally) produced a significant increase in EIB. The effect of propranolol could be inhibited by the addition of α-adrenergic blockade with phentolamine (10 mg as aerosol). The control subjects had no measurable EIB, even after the administration of propranolol (40 mg orally). It is concluded that, in addition to the vagal system, an activated α-adrenergic system is involved in the phenomenon of EIB.Keywords
This publication has 2 references indexed in Scilit:
- Influence of Low Concentrations of Allergens on Bronchial SystemRespiration, 1978
- Role of Autonomic Nervous System and the Cough Reflex in the Increased Responsiveness of Airways in Patients with Obstructive Airway Disease*Journal of Clinical Investigation, 1967