We have investigated the efficacy of a pumpless hemoperfusion technique, continuous arteriovenous hemoperfusion (CAVHP) in 3 cases of acute intoxications with meprobamate, theophylline and phenobarbital. Dramatic responses were noted in both hemodynamic unstable and comatous patients. With this technique, a blood flow of 120 cm3/min could be achieved in severe hypotension. Moreover, with the restoration of blood pressure, blood flow increased to 150-400 cm3/min. Our preliminary experience has shown that CAVHP allows an exceptionally high solute elimination. Hemoperfusion clearances of meprobamate, phenobarbital and theophylline were 198 +/- 5.6 cm3/min, 290.25 +/- 25.33 cm3/min and 192.79 +/- 55 cm3/min, respectively. Our present results suggest that CAVHP is a simple, safe, effective and less costly alterative of conventional hemoperfusion.