Glibenclamide, a blocker of ATP‐sensitive potassium channels, reverses endotoxin‐induced hypotension in pig

In anaesthetized, mechanically ventilated, indomethacin‐treated pigs, we infused E. coli endotoxin (LPS, 20 micrograms kg‐1 h‐1, i.v.). After 150 min of endotoxaemia, 10 mg kg‐1 glibenclamide (an ATP‐sensitive K+ channel antagonist) was administered i.v. over 5 min. Vascular variables were recorded before (control), after 150 min of endotoxaemia and 5, 15 and 30 min after glibenclamide infusion. Glibenclamide transiently (within 5 min) increased systemic arterial pressure, reduced by LPS administration, without an effect on cardiac output. Our data indicate that ATP‐sensitive K+ channels may play a partial role in the vascular changes due to endotoxaemia.