Evaluation of the effects of bovine hemoglobin glutamer-200 on systolic arterial blood pressure in hypotensive cats: 44 cases (1997–2008)

OBJECTIVE: To determine effects of bovine hemoglobin glutamer-200 (Hb-200) solution on systolic arterial blood pressure (SAP) in hypotensive cats and describe potential adverse effects associated with this treatment. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: 44 cats. PROCEDURES: Medical records of hypotensive (Doppler SAP ≤ 80 mm Hg) cats that received Hb-200 treatment were reviewed. Volume and rate of Hb-200 administration, treatments for hypotension given prior to Hb-200 administration, changes in SAP, potential adverse effects, and short-term outcome were evaluated. RESULTS: 44 cats were included in the study. Mean ± SD SAP prior to Hb-200 administration was 52 ± 11 mm Hg, despite other treatments. Forty-three cats received Hb-200 via IV bolus administration (mean ± SD volume, 3.1 ± 2.2 mL/kg [1.41 ± 1.0 mL/lb] over 25.17 ± 17.51 minutes); 1 cat received a continuous rate infusion (CRI) only. The SAP increased to > 80 mm Hg in 33 of 44 (75%) cats. The SAP increased > 20 mm Hg above baseline value in 29 of these 33 cats and in 4 cats in which SAP did not exceed 80 mm Hg. A CRI (mean ± SD rate, 0.8 ± 0.5 mL/kg/h [0.36 ± 0.23 mL/lb/h]) of Hb-200 was administered to 37 cats (after bolus infusion in 36). Mean SAP during the CRI was 92 ± 18 mm Hg. Adverse effects included respiratory changes (n = 8 cats), vomiting (2), and pigmented serum (30). Seventeen (39%) cats survived to discharge from the hospital, 6 died, and 21 were euthanized. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Hb-200 effectively increased SAP in hypotensive cats with few adverse effects.