Effects of prostaglandins in canine endotoxin shock.

Endotoxin shock was produced in healthy, adult mongrel dogs by the intravenous injection of 1.5 mg/kg of E. coli endotoxin. The 24 hour survival of untreated animals was 34% and was not enhanced by volume replacement with low molecular weight dextran. Treatment with dextran and prostaglandin A1 or E1, although effecting significant hemodynamic improvements, did not increase survival.