Observations on the Hemodynamic Properties of a Thiophanium Derivative, Ro 2-2222 (Arfonad), in Human Subjects

Abstract

Observations on the hemodynamic properties of a thiophanium derivative (Arfonad) have been made on normotensive nonpregnant and pregnant subjects and on patients with hypertensive complications of pregnancy. The drug was given by single intravenous injections and by intravenous drip infusion. The hypotensive effects of single injections where compared with those of a standard tetraethylammonium chloride (TEAC) test. The authors observed that the hemodynamic effects of Arfonad were similar in some respects to those of tetraethylammonium chloride or spinal anesthesia. A fall in the cardiac output occurred when the blood pressure fell following Arfonad administration. The authors discuss these hemodynamic effects in terms of differences in response to ganglionic blocking agents of the various groups of subjects studied.