CARDIOVASCULAR EFFECTS OF GALLAMINE TRIETHIODIDE IN MAN

The effect of intravenously administered gallamine triethiodide (0.5-1.0 mg/kg) on cardiovascular function was estimated in patients anaesthetized with thiopentone, tubocurarine, nitrous oxide and trichloroethylene and artificially ventilated. A 40 per cent rise in heart rate and a 35 per cent rise in cardiac output were observed, with no significant change in stroke volume. A modest rise in mean arterial pressure and a similar fall in total peripheral resistance resulted. Stroke work was found to be increased slightly. The effects of the two different dose levels of gallamine did not differ significantly. The results do not support the idea of an inotropic action of gallamine and the changes produced in the peripheral circulation are thought to represent passive responses to the increase in cardiac output. © 1968 John Sherratt and Son Ltd.