Mechanism of the Antidiuretic Action of Reserpine. ∗

Abstract

Summary

The urinary excretion of electrolytes, chlorides and 5-HIAA after administration of either reserpine or serotonin in dogs was found to be closely similar in pattern: lower Na⁺ and Cl^-, and higher K⁺ and 5-hydroxy-indolyl acetic acid. ADH administration, on the other hand, resulted in a different pattern: higher Na⁺ and Cl^-, and lower K⁺ and 5-HIAA. This suggests that the antidiuretic action of reserpine is due to release of serotonin, depleted from body stores, and not to release of ADH.