Antinociceptive activity of beta-adrenoceptor agonists in the hot plate test in mice.

Clenbuterol, isoproterenol and salbutamol increased the latency in the licking response of mice on the hot plate at 56.5 degrees C. This effect was dose-related and obtained after IP administration. Clenbuterol was active at lower doses than isoproterenol and salbutamol, a result which is consistent with its better penetration in the central nervous system. Moreover, the effect of clenbuterol was stereospecific, the (-)-isomer being the active form. Our results suggest the implication of central beta-adrenoceptors in the modulation of the response to a painful stimulation.