Final answer:
Thiopental results in decreased systemic vascular resistance and myocardial depression, leading to lower blood pressure and reduced cardiac output. It may also decrease heart rate and stroke volume by acting on the cardioaccelerator and vasomotor centers, and influences on body temperature can further affect heart function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The effect of thiopental on systemic vascular resistance (SVR) and the cardiovascular (CV) system is primarily due to its action as a general anesthetic. Thiopental induces vasodilation, which decreases SVR, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. It also depresses the myocardial function, causing a reduction in cardiac output. Since thiopental suppresses the action of the cardioaccelerator and vasomotor centers, it can lead to decreased heart rate (HR) and stroke volume (SV). In the context of body temperature, thiopental may also influence the CV system indirectly; hypothermia caused by thiopental can slow the heart rate and strength of heart contractions. However, in a controlled medical setting, mechanisms are in place to maintain homeostasis, such as the use of heart-lung machines during surgery.