The effect of non-selective and selective beta-1-blockade on the plasma potassium response to hypoglycaemia

The effect of non-selective beta-blockade with propranolol, beta 1-selective blockade with betaxolol and of saline on the plasma potassium response to insulin induced hypoglycaemia was examined in six healthy subjects. Although propranolol retarded the recovery from hypoglycaemia, the degree of hypokalaemia was significantly (p less than 0.01) less than with saline or betaxolol, which had similar effects. Adrenergic mechanisms may modulate potassium disposal through a beta 2 receptor.