Sympathomimetic Action of Xanthine Diuretics in the Alligator

Abstract

The injection of caffeine, theobromine, theophylline and Mictine in doses of 25–250 mg/kg produced effects almost indistinguishable from those of epinephrine in doses of 1 mg/kg. The diuretic effects and the pattern of electrolyte excretion in the urine following the injection of the xanthines and Mictine were qualitatively similar to those observed following epinephrine. The xanthines also produced glycogenolysis. Hyperglycemia, increased blood and urine lactic acid, and glycosuria occurred in all experimentals. The xanthine diuretics and Mictine increased neuromuscular irritability. Pupillary constriction occurred following the injection of the xanthines, Mictine, and epinephrine. L-epinephrine and l-norepinephrine resembled epinephrine, U.S.P., in their effects on the alligator. Xanthine in doses of 250 mg/kg was inactive.