Glibenclamide, a blocker of ATP-sensitive potassium channels, reverses endotoxin-induced hypotension in pig.

In anaesthetized, mechanically ventilated, indomethacin-treated pigs, we infused E. coli endotoxin (LPS, 20 micrograms kg-1 h-1, i.v.). After 150 min of endotoxaemia, 10 mg kg-1 glibenclamide (an ATP-sensitive K+ channel antagonist) was administered i.v. over 5 min. Vascular variables were recorded before (control), after 150 min of endotoxaemia and 5, 15 and 30 min after glibenclamide infusion. Glibenclamide transiently (within 5 min) increased systemic arterial pressure, reduced by LPS administration, without an effect on cardiac output. Our data indicate that ATP-sensitive K+ channels may play a partial role in the vascular changes due to endotoxaemia.