We reported that centrally applied bombesin probably excites both the gastric sympathetic and adrenomedullary systems and thus induces inhibition of gastric acid secretion. In the present study, therefore, we examined whether or not centrally applied bombesin directly affects sympathetic nerve activities in rats anesthetized with urethane. Intracerebroventricular administration of bombesin (0.3 and 3.0 nmol) increased discharge rates of the sympathetic branch as well as those of the adrenal branch of preganglionic greater splanchnic nerves. These effects were not secondary to changes in arterial blood pressure by bombesin. In conclusion, centrally applied bombesin directly activates both the sympathetic and adrenomedullary systems.