The effect of β-adrenoceptor blockade on body temperature and plasma renin activity in heat-exposed man

1 The effect of propranolol (5 mg i.v.) on rectal and skin temperatures, heart rate, blood pressure, plasma renin activity (PRA) and plasma renin substrate concentration (PRS) was investigated in twelve men exercising in the heat. The effect of practolol (10 mg i.v.) on PRA was investigated in five men. 2 Body temperatures were insignificantly affected by propranolol, while heart rate elevation in response to exercise in the heat was 21% lower than in the same subjects receiving saline. Diastolic blood pressure during exercise was elevated by propranolol. 3 The normal increase in PRA seen in heat exposure was suppressed by propranolol to levels seen when the same exercise was carried out at 25°C. Practolol did not affect the renin response to heat exposure. 4 PRS was not altered significantly by exercise or heat. 5 The results indicate that the increase in PRA seen in the heat is largely a result of increased sympathetic activity.