Abstract: An anti-hypotensive formulation comprising an essentially arginine-free or low arginine (less than about 0.1%, most preferably, about 0.01%) containing mixture of amino acids is provided. The invention in particular embodiments of the anti-hypotensive formulation includes ornithine, citrulline or both. A method for prophylaxis and treatment of systemic hypotension in an animal is provided. Most particularly, a method for treating hypotension caused by nitric oxide synthesis through administering a low or essentially arginine-free parenteral formulation to an animal, so as to reduce or eliminate nitric oxide synthesis is described. A method for treating an animal in septic shock is also disclosed, comprising administering to the animal an anti-hypotensive formulation comprising a mixture of amino acids, which is essentially arginine free.

Abstract: A method for treatment of an animal for systemic hypotension induced by internal nitric oxide production caused by endotoxin or cytokines. The method involves administering an .alpha..sub.1 adrenergic agonist and an amount of an inhibitor of nitric oxide formation from argiResearch relating to the development of this invention was supported by the United States Public Health Service grants which gives the United States government certain rights to use of the present invention.