Limited effects of prostaglandin inhibitors in Escherichia coli sepsis

Responses to bacteremia include fever, leukocytosis, elaboration of acute-phase proteins, hypoferremia, and increased protein catabolism. To evaluate the role of prostaglandins in the mediation of these responses, the effects of intravenous ibuprofen (12.5 mg/kg X dose) were studied in eight dogs infused with live Escherichia coli. Thirteen dogs served as noninfected controls. Two of the eight animals that received ibuprofen died during the study, whereas all control animals with sepsis survived. Prostaglandin inhibition prevented the rise in temperature resulting from sepsis, while alterations in white cell count, C-reactive protein, and serum iron levels were unaffected. In addition, protein catabolism appeared to be similar in both groups. This minimal metabolic effect coupled with observed renal side effects makes the use of nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory agents in sepsis of questionable benefit.