Haemodynamic consequences of citrate infusion in the anaesthetized dog: comparison between two citrate solutions and the influence of beta blockade.

We have compared the effects of a solution of acid--citrate--dextrose (ACD) with those of a solution of citrate--phosphate--dextrose (CPD), infused at equal rates, on blood calcium ion concentration and different indices of haemodynamic performance in 17 dogs. The influence of beta adrenergic blockade on these changes was examined. The effects of ACD and CPD were studied in five dogs and were similar. Peripheral vascular changes were the principal cause of arterial hypotension. In six dogs, propranolol 0.5 mg kg-1 intensified the hypocalcaemia-induced left ventricular dysfunction.