Haemodynamic effects of ajmaline in man.

Abstract

The haemodynamic effects of ajmaline have been studied in eleven patients during diagnostic cardiac catheterisation. Single doses of 50 mg were injected intravenously during two minute periods and brachial and pulmonary artery pressures, cardiac output, stroke volume, heart rate, peripheral vascular resistance and the E. C. G. were recorded continuously. Serum concentrations of ajmaline were also determined. No significant haemodynamic effects were observed, except a reduction in systolic arterial pressure during the first five minutes and a slight increase in heart rate. QRS-complexes became wider in all subjects and bundle branch block occurred in three of them who had been digitalized. It was concluded that ajmaline had no marked unfavourable haemodynamic effects in the dose used. However, until further experience has been gained, ajmaline should be used with caution in digitalized patients and in those with impaired intra-cardiac conduction.