Effect of glucagon on hepatic circulation in the pig.

The effect of intravenous injection of 50 mug/kg of glucagon on the hepatic circulation of the pig was studied in 12 animals. Glucagon caused an arterial pressure reduction of 11 mm Hg after two minutes and 7 mm Hg after ten minutes. The portal pressure and blood flow were not altered. The superior mesenteric arterial flow decreased by 12%. The hepatic arterial blood flow increased by 80% after two minutes and by 58% after ten minutes. There was no difference in response when anesthesia was achieved with small intravenous doses of thiopental (Pentothal) sodium or 70% nitrous oxide in oxygen and tubocurarine chloride.