The absence of benefit of proteinase inhibition with aprotinin in severe shock in dogs.

A standard canine shock model has been used to assess the role of proteinase inhibition in the treatment of severe shock. Conventional therapy, i.e adequate volume replacement, was ensured in all experiments, while in the treated groups aprotinin (Trasylol) was administered at different stages of the haemorrhage. Despite other reports to the contrary, no benefit was demonstrated in the period of established refractory shock even when proteinase inhibition was commenced at an early stage of haemorrhage. It is concluded that proteinase inhibition cannot be recommended for shock resuscitation.