Energy metabolism in shock.

Shock produces a state of low-energy production secondary to lack of oxygen. Only 1/5 of the energy produced under aerobic conditions can be produced in shock and less so if shock continues and loss of nucleotide bases and substrate occurs. Carbohydrates and their intermediate compounds are responsible for the energy produced during shock. As cellular derangements and loss of energy supplying compounds are becoming better understood, their contributions to a condition of irreversible shock are receiving more consideration. Studies utilizing energy substrates, prevention of nucleotide loss, and supplying high-energy compounds have been done and show promise as a therapeutic modality.