[Vasoactive drugs and microcirculation in old age]

Within a series of studies on microcirculation in the aged, the conjunctival vessels were investigated by means of the intravital microscope in the course of intravenous infusion or prolonged administration of various drugs (xanthinol nicotinate, buflomedil, CPD-choline). During and after the treatment a better perfusion of the small conjunctival vessels (terminal capillary network) was observed, as well as the appearance of collaterals and a reduction of intravascular red cell aggregation. On the basis of these results a further direct demonstration of the vasoactive effect of the drugs under study could be given.