METABOLIC EFFECTS OF BETA-2-AGONISTS

Catecholamines produce a number of biochemical changes most of which result from stimulation of beta-2-receptors. Interest in these metabolic effects has increased recently as a consequence of the concern over the relatively high mortality from acute asthma attacks. In this review the data on the impact of beta-2-agonists on glucose production, insulin release and lipolysis are presented. Thereafter the subject of hypokalaemia, the mechanism for its production by beta-2-agonists and its relevance to cardiac arrhythmias are considered in detail. Finally the fall in plasma magnesium and the possible role of beta-2-agonists in the production of lactic acidosis are discussed.