[Dose-dependent cardiodepression in acute alcohol intoxication in the rat]

Isovolumetric pressure-volume relations, parameters of contractility and the resting tension curve were recorded in Wistar rats prior and during acute intoxication with ethylalcohol. Parameters were recorded at blood levels between 6.0% and 2.0% of the intravenously infused alcohol. At the high blood alcohol level, maximal isovolumetric pressure is diminished by 24%, maximal rate of pressure rise by 42%, as compared with controls, whereas enddiastolic pressure increased by 32% and enddiastolic volume by 11%. Significant impairment of hemodynamics is also present at a blood alcohol level of 2.0%. These findings point to a dose-dependent cardiodepression in acute alcohol intoxication.