The effect of propranolol on rat brain catecholamine biosynthesis.

ABSTRACT

The effect of propranolol on the levels of catecholamine in different parts of rat brain has been studied. The catecholamine contents of different regions were lowered by the drug. Dopamine β-hydroxylase activity was also reduced, both in vivo and in vitro. Propranolol is taken up by the brain tissue and the uptake is timedependent. These results suggests that reduction in brain catecholamine levels and dopamine β-hydroxylase activity may be one of the possible ways through which the drug manifests its clinical effects.