Antagonism by β‐adrenoceptor blocking agents of the antianaphylactic effect of isoprenaline

Abstract

β‐Adrenoceptor blocking agents antagonized the inhibitory (antianaphylactic) effect of isoprenaline on antigen‐induced histamine release in isolated, passively sensitized, human lung and actively sensitized guinea‐pig lung suggesting that the effect is exerted through β‐adrenoceptors. No antagonism was obtained with the human allergic leucocyte preparation. The antianaphylactic effect of isoprenaline was antagonized not only by propranolol but also by the ‘selective’ β‐adrenoceptor blocking agents, practolol and butoxamine. The classification of β‐adrenoceptors is discussed. Certain similarities between antianaphylactic and lipolytic β‐adrenoceptors are noted. 1971 British Pharmacological Society