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The peripheral action of hexamethonium and of pentolinium

P MANTEGAZZA, C TYLER, K ZAIMIS

    British Journal of Pharmacology and Chemotherapy
    |December 1, 1958
    PubMed

    Insights

    Hexamethonium and pentolinium enhanced responses to adrenaline and noradrenaline in cats. This suggests these drugs sensitize peripheral effector cells, impacting autonomic nervous system research.

    Area of Science:

    • Pharmacology
    • Autonomic Nervous System
    • Neurophysiology

    Background:

    • Peripheral effector cells respond to various neurotransmitters and nerve stimulation.
    • Autonomic ganglia modulate these responses.
    • Ganglionic blockers like hexamethonium and pentolinium are used to study autonomic pathways.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the effects of hexamethonium and pentolinium on peripheral effector cell responses.
    • To determine if these ganglionic blockers alter sensitivity to adrenergic agents and nerve stimulation.

    Main Methods:

    • Experiments were conducted on cats.
    • Responses of limb blood vessels to adrenaline and noradrenaline were measured.
    • Responses of the nictitating membrane to adrenaline and postganglionic stimulation were assessed.
    • Effects were studied before and after administration of hexamethonium and pentolinium.

    Main Results:

    • Hexamethonium and pentolinium administration increased the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline on limb blood vessels.
    • These drugs also potentiated the actions of adrenaline and postganglionic stimulation on the nictitating membrane.
    • The observed increase in responses suggests a sensitization of peripheral effector cells.

    Conclusions:

    • Hexamethonium and pentolinium can sensitize peripheral effector cells to adrenergic agonists and nerve stimulation.
    • This sensitization may play a significant role in modulating autonomic neurotransmission.
    • Findings contribute to understanding the complex interactions within the autonomic nervous system.

    Keywords:
    ARTERENOL/effectsEPINEPHRINE/effectsHEXAMETHONIUM COMPOUNDS/effectsMUSCLE RELAXANTS/effectsNERVES, PERIPHERAL/effect of drugs on

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