[Effect of uterotonic agents on the pathophysiology of endotoxin-induced shock]

Different uterus contracting compounds (methylergonovine, oxytocin and prostaglandin F2 alpha) were evaluated with respect to their effect on the pathophysiology of endotoxin-induced shock. We used the model developed by Beller and Theiss of a continuous endotoxin-infusion in female Sprague-Dawley rats. In each group fibrinogen, plasma hemoglobin, hematocrit and thrombocytes were measured. The body weight of the rats was determined before and after the infusions. After the end of the experiment the intravasal fibrin deposits in the kidneys were evaluated quantitatively. Methylergonovine showed a slight protective effect regarding the clotting system and the shock events. This effect was more pronounced with oxytocin. In contrast prostaglandin F2 alpha enhanced the shock events. Based on our results we feel that the use of prostaglandin F2 alpha under septic conditions can be associated with significant risks.