Effect of torasemide on intracranial pressure, mean systemic arterial pressure, and cerebral perfusion pressure in experimental brain edema of the rat.

Torasemide, a puridine-3-sulfonylurea derivative, is a lipophilic diuretic compound. It interacts with the Na+2Cl-K+ carrier and at higher concentrations with the chloride channels. The lipophilic nature of torasemide may determine its access to glial and neuronal cells across the blood brain barrier. The present study was performed to establish whether torasemide could modify intracranial pressure and cytotoxic brain edema in functionally nephrectomized Wistar rats (150-240 g). Brain edema of the cytotoxic type was induced by infusion of 100 ml aqua bidest/kg body weight. After the end of the infusion 100 mg torasemide/kg body weight or a corresponding volume of isotonic saline were injected followed by continuous continued recording of ICP and systemic arterial pressure for at least 3 hours. Torasemide prevented the rise in intracranial pressure seen in control animals. The ICP values for the torasemide-treated animals were lower at all points. Following intravenous injection of 100 mg torasemide/kg body weight at 50, 60, 70, 90 and 120 minutes a significant decrease of intracranial pressure compared to that in controls was observed. Torasemide may be a useful adjunct in the therapy of brain edema and increased intracranial pressure.