[Enhanced myocardial depression from bupivacaine in diabetic rats].

We examined the direct effects of bupivacaine on the diabetic rat myocardium using an isolated perfused (Langendorff) heart preparation. Rats were made diabetic by injection of streptozotocin (55 mg.kg-1, i. v.). 12 weeks after the administration of streptozotocin, hearts were excised and perfused using Langendorff technique. Following 60 min for equilibration, diabetic hearts from the 12-week animals exhibited significant bradycardia. Bupivacaine 3 mcg.ml-1 did not decrease myocardial contractility in control animals. However, 3 mcg.ml-1 bupivacaine decreased contractility significantly in diabetic animals at nearly all periods. Bupivacaine decreased heart rate and coronary flow significantly and similarly in control and diabetic rats hearts. After pacing at 4 Hz, bupivacaine decreased contractility more in diabetic group than in control group. These results indicate that the presence of a diabetic state appears to enhance the sensitivity of the heart to the myocardial depressant effect of bupivacaine.