The anticonvulsant effects of propranolol and beta-adrenergic blockade

The anticonvulsant activity of racemic and (+)-propranolol was studied in rats. Neither drug changed the current to produce a minimal seizure in 50% of animals. Both drugs were effective in the maximal electroshock seizure test, the (+) isomer being more potent than the racemic form. Since the (+) isomer is practically devoid of beta-adrenergic blocking activity, the anticonvulsant effects of propranolol do not result from beta-adrenergic blockade.