Role of beta-adrenergic receptors in the antidepressant activity of alprazolam.

Chronic intravenous infusion of reserpine significantly increased beta-adrenergic receptors (beta-AR) in the cerebra cortex of rats. This increase in beta-AR is partially blocked by chronic treatment with alprazolam. However, similar effects were not observed with diazepam. These results indicate that beta-AR may be involved in the antidepressant activity of alprazolam.