Abstract: There is provided preservation solutions for perfusing and storing an organ while awaiting transplantation. The preservation solutions include, per liter of solution, a balanced isotonic solution of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium ions and bicarbonate in a physiologically acceptable amount, from about 1.0 .mu.m to about 5.0 .mu.m of an amiloride-containing compound; and water sufficient to make a liter of solution. The amiloride-containing compound may be amiloride, hexamethylene amiloride, dimethyl amiloride, ethyl isopropyl amiloride or methyl isobutyl amiloride. The preserving solutions may also include other components such as EDTA, a small amount of adenosine, and at least one antioxidant. There is also provided a method for arresting an organ, storing an organ and transplanting an organ all at room temperature for up to at least 24 hours.

Abstract: There is provided cardioplegic solutions for arresting an organ intended for transplantation and preservation solutions for perfusing and storing an organ while awaiting transplantation. The cardioplegic solutions include, per liter of solution, a balanced isotonic solution of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium ions and bicarbonate in a physiologically acceptable amount, from about 0.5 .mu.M to about 2.0 .mu.M of an amiloride-containing compound; and water sufficient to make a liter of solution. The amiloride-containing compound may be amiloride, hexamethylene amiloride, dimethyl amiloride, ethyl isopropyl amiloride or methyl isobutyl amiloride. The preserving solutions are based on the isotonic solutions described and include other components such as EDTA, a small amount of adenosine, and at least one antioxidant. There is also provided a method for arresting an organ, storing an organ and transplanting an organ all at room temperature for up to at least 24 hours.