Using the venous occlusion plethysmograph the authors have studied the peripheral circulation of normal subjects and persons with peripheral vascular disease. It is demonstrated that the vasodilating agent Priscoline (2-benzyl-4,5-imidazoline hydrochloride) frequently increases peripheral blood flow to a degree comparable to that produced by either sympathectomy or indirect body heating. In addition, the combined use of plethysmography and a vasodilating procedure is shown to be of value in the diagnosis of peripheral vascular disorders. The pharmacology of Priscoline has been reviewed by a number of authors.3-5 Its pharmacologic effects are manifold. Its effect on cardiac output is variable.6 In larger doses, it acts as an adrenergic blocking agent; in the smaller commonly used doses, it is said to be all effective local vasodilator, particularly in the skin of the extremities.
PROCEDUREFive normal individuals and 23 patients with complaints suggesting peripheral arterial insufficiency were studied. Each subject visited the laboratory on at least two occasions, separated by an interval of a day or more. In no instance was the subject permitted to smoke, to drink liquor, tea or coffee, or to consume a heavy meal within the 12 hour period preceding the visits.Upon arrival, the subject was given a hospital garment to wear. He was then asked to lie upon a bed which was kept at a fixed gatch throughout the investigation. The trunk was elevated at an angle of 40 degrees and the knees were slightly raised. An attempt was made to prevent drafts and sudden distracting noises.Skin temperatures were measured at previously marked points on the trunk, arms and hands, legs and feet, bv means of a McKesson Dermalor Thermocouple. Oscillometric readings were taken at the wrists and ankles, and in some instances at the calves and thighs, with a Collens Sphvgmo-Oscillometer. The blood pressure and oral temperature were recorded bv clinical methods.Plastic plethysmograph cups were then placed
By means of venous occlusion digital plethysmography, the authors have evaluated the peripheral vasodilating effect on normal and diseased arterioles of a new adrenergic blocking agent, Regitine, 2-[-(
m
-Hydroxy-N-
p
-tolylanilino)-methyl]-2-imidazoline. Results have been compared with the results of similar studies using Priscoline and indirect body heating to produce vasodilation. The effect of palrenteral Regitine on pulse and blood pressure has been noted as well as the clinical results obtained when this drug was used orally for the treatment of certain forms of peripheral vascular disease.
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