H2-receptors and traumatic oedema.

The effects of the H2-antagonists, metiamide and cimetidine, on the oedema following limb ischaemia or scald have been investigated in two strains of rat. No inhibition of oedema formation was found except when large doses of cimetidine were given before scalding. This effect was attributed to the fall in body temperature. Our results do not support the view that H2-receptors are concerned in the vascular response to injury.