Effect of systemically administered epinephrine on palmar sweating

We have described our experience with a modified Bullard sudorometer for the continuous recording of sweating rates from selected skin areas. This involves an electrical system for sensing water vapor pressure and expressing it as relative humidity. This sensitive device was used to study the effect of systemically administered epinephrine on palmar sweating. Thirty-three young adults were tested; ten demonstrated a decrease after epinephrine administration. Those subjects demonstrating a decrease in palmar sweating were from the group of subjects who perspired heavily. The possible mechanisms for this are discussed.