Bronchial hypersensitivity to methacholine in monkeys with beta-adrenergic blockade.

In monkeys with beta-adrenergic blockade caused by administration of propranolol, we found that the conductance of the total respiratory system markedly decreased following intravenous administration of methacholine. The presence of beta-adrenergic blockade was judged from inotropic effect on the heart, levels of blood glucose and lactic acid, and the reaction of eosinophils after adrenalin injection.