Response to histamine of the intact coronary system in an isolated rabbit heart preparation

In isolated Langendorff-perfused rabbit hearts concentration-response relations for histamine were analysed with and without H2-receptor blocker cimetidine (10(-5) mol l-1). The diameter of large epicardial coronary arteries was determined by video angiometry. Global coronary flow and left ventricular isovolumetric pressure were continuously registered. Histamine concentration (10(-7)-6 X 10(-6) mol l-1) reduced the diameter of large coronary arteries up to -50%, however, this vasoconstriction was maximal after 1 min and was then attenuated within the following 20 min. Coronary flow and left ventricular pressure were not significantly altered. In the presence of cimetidine the histamine-induced vasoconstriction was stabilized and not reversed with time. Moreover, the extent of vessel wall narrowing was intensified (up to -70%) when compared with histamine alone. Furthermore, severe functional myocardial failure was observed (flow reduction to 40% of control).