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Autonomic blockade amplifies cortisol-induced hypertension in man
S H Tam1, P M Williamson, J J Kelly
1Department of Medicine, University of New South Wales, St George Hospital, Kogarah, Australia.
Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology & Physiology
|January 1, 1997
Summary
The autonomic nervous system (ANS) modulates cortisol-induced hypertension. Blocking the ANS amplified blood pressure and heart rate increases during cortisol treatment in healthy males.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Physiology
- Endocrinology
- Autonomic Neuroscience
Background:
- Cortisol is known to induce hypertension.
- The role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) in this hypertensive effect is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the autonomic nervous system (ANS) in cortisol-induced hypertension.
- To determine if autonomic blockade alters the hypertensive response to cortisol.
Main Methods:
- Four healthy males received cortisol (50 mg every 6 hours for 6 days).
- Total autonomic blockade was achieved using prazosin, clonidine, propranolol, and atropine.
- Hemodynamic responses to the Valsalva maneuver assessed blockade adequacy.
Main Results:
- Cortisol significantly increased systolic blood pressure.
- Autonomic blockade augmented the increase in diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, and heart rate compared to baseline.
- The increase in systolic blood pressure did not reach statistical significance after blockade.
Conclusions:
- The autonomic nervous system plays a significant role in modulating the hypertensive effects of cortisol.
- Autonomic blockade intensifies the pressor response to cortisol, particularly affecting diastolic pressure and heart rate.