Mixed Alpha- and Beta-Agonist Activity

Drugs with Mixed Alpha-and Beta-Agonist Activity 

Amphetamines. Drugs such as amphetamine (generic), dextroamphetamine (Dexedrine, others), 

Epinephrine (Adrenalin, Bronkaid Mist, Primatene Mist, others). Epinephrine appears to directly stimulate all adrenergic receptor subtypes and is administered for a variety of reasons. Epinephrine is found in many antiasthmatic inhalation products because of its ability to stimulate beta-2 receptors on the bronchi. Because it stimulates vascular alpha-1 receptors, epinephrine may be applied topically to produce local vasoconstriction and control bleeding during minor surgical procedures (e.g., suturing superficial wounds). Likewise, epinephrine may be mixed with a local anes- 

Metaraminol (Aramine). Metaraminol appears to act like ephedrine that is, metaraminol directly stimulates alpha-1, alpha-2, and beta-1 receptors, and indirectly stimulates them by increasing the release of presynaptic norepinephrine. This drug is usually administered by injection (intramuscularly, intravenously, or subcutaneously) to treat hypotension occurring in shock or general anesthesia. 

Norepinephrine (Levophed). Norepinephrine stimulates both types of alpha receptors as well as beta-1 receptors but displays very little agonistic activity toward beta-2 receptors. It is usually administered intravenously to treat hypotension during shock or general anesthesia. 

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