naloxone and Shock--Surgical

The recent evolution of our understanding of endogenous OPs has led to important new insights into the pathophysiology of many disease states. Opiate antagonism may provide the critical care physician with yet another lifesaving weapon. Opiate antagonists are not approved for human use in the various conditions discussed in this article; their use is strictly experimental and should be restricted to controlled trials. We look forward to continued research and clinical trials involving these agents.

Topics: Animals; Body Temperature Regulation; Cardiovascular System; Clonidine; Endorphins; Halothane; Humans; Hypotension; Naloxone; Narcotic Antagonists; Rats; Receptors, Opioid; Respiration; Shock, Hemorrhagic; Shock, Septic; Shock, Surgical; Spinal Cord; Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone