title: Effect of beta-adrenergic agents on immunoglobulin G levels of asthmatic subjects.
abstract: Asthmatic subjects using oral beta-adrenergic agents had significantly lower mean serum IgG levels than asthmatics not taking beta-adrenergic agents (984 vs. 1,195 mg/dl, p less than 0.025). Corticosteroid use had the same effect (920 vs. 1,195 mg/dl, p less than 0.005). Concomitant usage of both agents was associated with further depression of IgG levels. These were no differences between the serum levels of IgA, IgM, IgD, IgE and the complement components C3 and C4 associated with the use of either or both agents. These findings suggest that beta-adrenergic agents, used in pharmacologic doses, may have an effect on the immune system.
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001249:Asthma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000276:immunology; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D007074:Immunoglobulin G / Q000378:metabolism*; D008875:Middle Aged
chemical_list: D000305:Adrenal Cortex Hormones; D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists; D007074:Immunoglobulin G