[The effect of dopamine or dobutamine on plasma concentration of magnesium in dogs]

Plasma magnesium (Mg) concentration of dogs was determined with atomic absorption spectrophotometry during the infusion of dopamine (DOA) or dobutamine (DOB). Other electrolytes were also measured with same samples. Normoventilation was maintained during this experiment in order to avoid the respiratory interference. DOA 15-20 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 decreased Mg concentration significantly. DOB 5-20 micrograms.kg-1.min-1 did not change Mg concentration. Potassium (K) values were almost constant during infusion of both drugs, but DOB reduced K concentration at the dose of 20 micrograms.kg-1.min-1. Ionized calcium ion tended to decrease in DOA and to increase in DOB while the dose of the catecholamines was increased. These were not significant changes. These changes of concentration returned to control values 1 hour after stopping drug administrations. We speculate that beta-receptor, especially beta 2-receptor stimulation by DOA is responsible for the decrease of Mg in the mechanism of Mg uptake into cells of such tissues as liver or muscle.