Hypotensive action of bretylium after central administration.

Abstract

Bretylium has been found to have a central hypotensive effect independent of its peripheral adrenergic neuron blocking action. It decreases the excitability of the medullary vasoactive neurons, as shown by inhibition of vasopressor responses evoked by stereotaxic stimulation of the medulla oblongata or reflex responses mediated at the medullary level. A possible role of catecholamines in the central hypotensive action of bretylium is suggested.