Nitric oxide mediates the cardiovascular instability of haemodialysis patients.

Acute hypotension is a major cardiovascular complication of haemodialysis. The cardiac output falls but the total peripheral resistance remains unchanged at the time when hypotension develops. Nitric oxide affects myocardial contraction and noradrenergic response, and regulates vascular tone. This review discusses the mechanisms of acute hypotension occurring during haemodialysis, focusing on the role of nitric oxide in the associated cardiovascular instability.