title: beta-Adrenergic treatment of hyperkalemic periodic paralysis.
abstract: In a patient with hyperkalemic periodic paralysis, metaproterenol prevented muscular weakness and hyperkalemia in periods of rest after exercise. During a severe attack, the drug rapidly corrected hyperkalemia and seemed to enhance the return of strength. The action of metaproterenol may involve a beta-adrenergic-mediated increase of potassium transport via the sodium-potassium pump.
authors.forename: P E
authors.initials: PE
authors.lastname: Bendheim
authors.forename: E O
authors.initials: EO
authors.lastname: Reale
authors.forename: B O
authors.initials: BO
authors.lastname: Berg
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D006801:Humans; D006947:Hyperkalemia / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D007473:Ion Channels / Q000378:metabolism; D008297:Male; D009921:Metaproterenol / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D009119:Muscle Contraction; D010245:Paralyses, Familial Periodic / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000503:physiopathology; D005082:Physical Exertion; D011188:Potassium / Q000378:metabolism; D012146:Rest
chemical_list: D007473:Ion Channels; D009921:Metaproterenol; D011188:Potassium