Effects of cardioselective and non-cardioselective beta-blockade on adrenaline-induced metabolic and cardiovascular responses in man.

In 12 normal volunteers the interaction between the metabolic and cardiovascular effects of adrenaline and either a cardioselective (atenolol 150 mg p. o. for 1 week) or a non-selective beta-blocker with intrinsic sympathomimetic activity (pindolol 15 mg p. o. for 1 week) were studied. Equiactive doses of the beta-blockers were investigated with respect to their metabolic effects. There were profound differences in the metabolic profile of the two substances: the non-cardioselective beta-blocker caused significant inhibition of the lipolytic, glycogenolytic and the growth hormone-releasing effects of adrenaline when compared to the cardioselective agent. The results indicate that, during non-cardioselective beta-blockade, metabolic effects occur which should favourably influence myocardial oxygen consumption by making myocardial performance more economical.