Comparison of the effects of caffeine and a 2-alkyl-1,2,3-benzotriazinium iodide on frog rectus abdominis.

1 The mode of action of 2-n-propyl-4-p-tolylamino-1,2,3-benzotriazinium iodide (TnPBI), which induced contractures of frog rectus abdominis muscle, was investigated. 2 TnPBI caused contractures of frog rectus abdominis when the muscle had been depolarized with potassium chloride. 3 Experiments with TnPBI and caffeine in calcium-free Ringer suggested that both compounds produce contractures by releasing intracellular bound calcium. 4 It is suggested that at least two calcium stores are involved, one of which is sensitive to caffeine while both are sensitive to TnPBI.