Dynamics of the amount of fluid in the chest cavity and lower extremities in cardiac insufficiency under the influence of strophanthin and lasix

The effect of different drugs on the acid-base condition and gases of arterial blood was studied by Astrup's micromethod in 124 tests in patients with circulatory insufficiency. Cardiac glycosides correct the moderate decrease in blood oxygen tension and respiratory alkalosis in patients with left-ventricular failure. Morphine has a good arresting effect in attacks of cardiac asthma and corrects or reduces the respiratory alkalosis typical of the disease but at the same time reduces the saturation of blood with oxygen. The use of oxygen together with morphine removes this unfavourable effect of the drugs. Euphylline often intensifies respiratory alkalosis, while its effect on oxygen tension in the blood and its saturation with oxygen is poorly pronounced and diversely directed. Lasics causes a favourable correcting effect on the acid-base condition and oxygenation of blood in pulmonary edema marked by metabolic acidosis.