[Effect of repeated nicotine administration on mucus secretion, bronchodilation and circulatory variables: inhibitory...

To investigate the mechanisms of action of nicotine we studied the effect of muscarinic and adrenergic receptor antagonists on nicotine-induced changes in the lungs and circulation. Nicotine increased mucus secretion from tracheal submucosal glands and caused bronchocon-striction. Cardiovascular effects were a bradycardia followed by tachycardia, hypertension and a biphasic increase in cardiac output. All of these effects were completely blocked by prior administration of hexamethonium. Propranolol and phentolamine prevented the increase in heart rate, and reduced the increase in blood pressure. Only atropine inhibited nicotine-induced hypersecretion and bronchocon-striction.