The effect of glucocorticoids, beta-2-adrenoceptor agonists, theophylline and propranolol on the rate of ethanol elimination and blood acetate concentration in humans.

The effects of a single dose and of prolonged administration of glucocorticoids and of a single dose of salbutamol, theophylline or propranolol on the rate of ethanol elimination and blood acetate concentration were examined in healthy male students. Mean ethanol elimination rate and mean blood acetate concentration were increased significantly after acute intake of glucocorticoids. After chronic administration of glucocorticoids, the rate of ethanol elimination was significantly increased, whereas blood acetate concentration showed a tendency to increase, but did not reach statistical significance. Changes were found neither in ethanol elimination rates nor in blood acetate levels after single doses of salbutamol, theophylline and propranolol.