Localization of the neurally mediated arrhythmogenic properties of digitalis.

Abstract

Available evidence suggests that the propensity of digitalis glycosides to produce cardiac arrhythmias is due in part to their neuroexictatory effects. We have performed experiments in cats which support the existence of a neurogenic component in the etiology of digitalis-induced ventricular arrhythmias. Our data further indicate that the locus of this neural effect lies within an area of the medulla 2 millimeters above to 2 millimeters below the obex. These findings, when considered with the effects of polar cardiac glycosides that do not cross the blood-brain barrier, suggest that the area postrema may be the site of neural activation.

• Authors: J C Somberg, T W Smith
• Journal: Science (New York, N.Y.) (Science) Vol. 204 Issue 4390 Pg. 321-3 (Apr 20 1979) ISSN: 0036-8075 [Print] United States
• PMID: 219481 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Digitalis Glycosides
• Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase

Topics

• Animals
• Arrhythmias, Cardiac (chemically induced)
• Brain Stem (physiology)
• Cats
• Digitalis Glycosides (pharmacology, toxicity)
• Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
• Heart (drug effects, innervation)
• Myocardium (metabolism)
• Sodium-Potassium-Exchanging ATPase (metabolism)
• Spinal Cord (physiology)
• Vagus Nerve (physiology)