Abstract

Doxapram hydrochloride, 1-ethyl-4-(2-morpholinoethyl)-3,3-diphenyl-2-pyrrolidinone hydrochloride hydrate, has been shown to be a potent respiratory stimulant acting mainly through direct stimulation of central respiratory centers. Data have been presented which indicate that the compound produces a mild stimulation of carotid chemoreceptors. The compound also produces a peripheral stimulating effect due to stimulation of the aortic chemoreceptors and possibly other peripheral chemoreceptors. Doxapram also produced pressor responses through both central and peripheral mechanisms.