Abstract
Summary
Thyrotoxicosis increases the incidence of ergotamine-induced gangrene of the tail of the rat. Reduction in oxygen consumption by propylthiouracil does not alter the incidence of ergot gangrene. Bleeding from the amputated tail of the rat is markedly reduced for prolonged periods by ergotamine and pre-treatment with thyroxin further prolongs the vasospasm so induced. It is assumed that thyroxin acts, not by altering the resistance of the tissues to vascular occlusion, nor by sensitizing the vascular musculature to ergotamine, but by prolonging the action of the alkaloids, possibly by interfering with their elimination or destruction.
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