Metoprolol, a moderately cardio-selective beta adrenoceptor antagonist has been shown to reduce heart rate and systolic blood pressure (Wyberg et al 1977), and prevent part of pressor response to psychological sttess (Taylor 1981). In potency it is similar to propranolol, but its relative beta 1 selectivity is the basis tor its potential therapeutic advantage over less selective agents (Weiner ...

The existence of atypical- or beta 3-adrenoceptors has now been generally accepted. These receptors have been shown to be abundant in adipose tissue and in a number of gastrointestinal smooth muscle preparations. A recent study reported that beta 3-adrenoceptor stimulation mediated relaxation of isolated canine bronchial smooth muscle. The aim of the present study was to extend this observation...

Catecholamines have been implicated in the modulation of normal cell growth, exerting inhibitory or excitatory control depending on the cell type. However, there is a dearth of information on the role of adrenergic mediators in gastric cell proliferation. In the present study, the effects of adrenaline (ADR) and noradrenaline (NOR) on mucosal cell growth and the cell cycle were evaluated in vit...

The reduction in blood pressure seen with the use of beta-blocking drugs was an unexpected finding. Initially there was resistance to their use as the reduction of cardiac output and increase in peripheral resistance from beta-blockade was considered an undesirable pharmacological action for a drug in the treatment of hypertension. However, beta-blockers have now become established in the treat...