Effect of New Adrenal Steroids on Electrolyte and Water Excretion

Abstract

Summary

The effects of prednisone, prednisolone, hydrocortisone and desoxycorticosterone on excretion of water, sodium, and potassium, were compared in water-loaded adrenalectomized rats. All steroids stimulated water diuresis and potassium excretion. Hydrocortisone, prednisone and prednisolone were equi-potent; desoxycorticosterone was weaker. Hydrocortisone, prednisone and prednisolone stimulated sodium excretion at all doses having any effect and were again approximately equipotent. Desoxycorticosterone had the opposite effect and caused sodium retention. The relative inability of the Δ¹-steroids to cause sodium retention under conditions of clinical use is, therefore, not associated with any comparable inability to cause natriuresis under appropriate circumstances.