Central haemodynamic effects of dextran 70, dihydroergotamine and their combination. A study in dogs

In a study in dogs the central haemodynamic effects of dextran 70 and dihydroergotamine, both separated and combined, were evaluated. Dextran 70 gave an increased cardiac output, and peripheral resistance was reduced. The volume of blood flow in the femoral vein increased, pressure recordings being mainly unchanged. Dihydroergotamine caused an increase in the systemic arterial, central venous and pulmonary artery pressure. Cardiac output was unchanged. Total peripheral resistance increased but pulmonary vascular resistance remained unchanged. The combination of dextran 70 and dihydroergotamine gave a rather more pronounced increase in pressure recordings, but the other parameters observed were only moderately affected.