Hemodynamic effects of isoproterenol in canine endotoxin shock

Myocardial function and peripheral hemodynamic alterations were measured through the late stages of canine endotoxin shock. 60 min postendotoxin paired animals were given infusions of either 5 ml/kg per hr of 5% dextrose or dextrose plus isoproterenol (0.25 mug/kg per min). Comparable blood lactic and pyruvic acid levels were determined, the excess lactic acid calculated, and pH values were obtained. During the initial stages the classic pattern of hemodynamic alterations was observed; an excess of lactic acid appeared and the pH decreased. Outstanding was evidence of markedly reduced myocardial function in the late stages of shock with progressive rise in left ventricular end diastolic pressure (LVEDP), low cardiac index, rise of central venous pressure, increased central blood volume, tachycardia, and declining arterial pressure. Analyses of left ventricular function curves also indicated myocardial failure. Infusion of dextrose alone failed to decrease mortality rate (10 of 18 dying), whereas the rate was significantly decreased with isoproterenol (2 of 18). Dextrose infusion did not benefit myocardial function. Isoproterenol resulted in a marked improvement in myocardial action with a significant increase in heart work associated with, yet very minor, increments of LVEDP. In addition, tachycardia subsided, peripheral resistance decreased, and the blood pressure stabilized. The prognostic value of excess lactic acid was doubtful but a progressive fall in later stages was associated with survival.