Characterization of dopamine receptors involved in central thermoregulation in rabbits.

ABSTRACT

Intracerebroventricularly administered dopamine produced dose dependent hyperthermia in rabbits. Haloperidol, a D1 receptor blocker produced consistent hypothermia, whereas D2 receptor blocker metoclopramide produced hyperthermia, pretreatment with haloperidol competitively blocked the hyperthermic response of dopamine. Pretreatment with metoclopramide augmented the onset and peak response of dopamine. It is suggested that D1 receptors are involved in producing hyperthermia and D2 receptors in hypothermia.