Effect of Strophanthus on Coronary Blood Flow and Cardiac Oxygen Consumption of Normal and Failing Human Hearts

Abstract

The action of strophanthus preparations on the coronary blood flow and the oxidative metabolism of the normal and failing human heart has been studied by coronary sinus catheterization. It has been found that strophanthus preparations have no effect on the coronary flow or oxidative metabolism of either the normal or failing heart. This agrees with the concept that the oxidative metabolism (energy production) of the failing heart in vivo is not abnormal. The results indicate that this drug is responsible for causing more effective conversion of oxidative energy into work.