On the mechanism of some metabolic actions of dopamine

Summary The elevation of plasma glucose, glycerol and free fatty acids following the injection of dopamine in rats was reduced after treatment with desipramine or cocaine, while similar actions of noradrenaline on these metabolic parameters were enhanced after treatment with these drugs. Since the action of dopamine was also reduced by pretreatment with reserpine, we conclude that a significant part of the metabolic effects of dopamine is mediated by an indirect mechanism.Fellows of the Alexander von Humboldt-Foundation, W-Germany.