The effect of pentobarbitone on vasomotor responses to brain stem stimulation

Abstract

1. The effect of pentobarbitone on vasomotor responses to stimulation in the brain stem was investigated in wake, immobilized rabbits. 2. Pressor reactions were either reduced or converted into depressor responses. Depressor reactions were not affected or even intensified by small doses of barbiturate. 3. Blood pressure fall after barbiturate may be ascribed to preferential block of pressor centers. The implications of these findings regarding the mechanism of central blood pressure regulation and the treatment of hypertension are discussed.