Abstract: Chemicals are disclosed which are useful for inhibiting the actions of adenosine in mammals, comprising: L-propranolol, or D-propranolol, or alprenolol and derivatives thereof for parenteral or topical administration are disclosed for purposes of achieving desired circulating concentrations in the range of 10 nanogram to 10 milligrams per kilogram.D-Propranolol is of special interest because it is relatively inactive as a .beta.-adrenergic blocking agent. Specific uses of D-propranolol include the treatment of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, A-V node conduction disturbances; apnea of preterm infants, pulmonary hypertension, headaches, migraine, and in attention-deficit disorder. D-Propranolol might also be used as a substitute for xanthines in beverages to produce a feeling of well being, awakeness, awareness and increased performance.