[Reaction of peripheral veins and arteries following administration of beta-active agents. Studies on isoproterenol, propranolol, and practolol]

The local effect on veins and arteries of isoprenaline, propranolol and practolol was investigated in the human after intra-arterial application at the forearm. The injection of isoprenaline was followed by a dilatation of the arteries and veins. This effect was inhibited by propranolol, but not by practolol. The results demonstrate, that the peripheral vasoactive beta-stimulatory effect is mediated by so-called beta2-receptors, which were not influenced by a selective beta1-blocking agent like practolol. The results were discussed in respect to their clinical relevance.