Metabolic responses to a new beta-adrenoceptor agonist, ICI 118,587, in conscious rats.

The effect of a new beta-adrenoceptor agonist, ICI 118,587, on the blood levels of cyclic AMP, glucose, lactate, and FFA was studied in conscious rats. ICI 118,587 (200 micrograms/100 g s.c.) increased the cyclic AMP level in the normal and reserpine-pretreated rat, and increased the FFA level in the reserpine-pretreated rat. Adrenaline (10 micrograms/100 g s.c.) increased the levels of cyclic AMP, glucose, and lactate in the normal rat, and increased the FFA level in the reserpine-pretreated rat. The increases in these metabolites induced by this particular dose of adrenaline were inhibited by ICI 118,587. In the normal or reserpine-pretreated rat, ICI 118,587 acts as a beta-agonist on metabolism, and is capable of antagonizing the metabolic effects of adrenaline.