Renal effects of SK&F 82526 in anesthetized rats

Dopamine affects renal hemodynamics, renal tubular functions, and the secretion of renin. We have studied the renal effects of SK&F 82526 (an agonist which is selective for the DA1 subclass of dopamine receptors) in anesthetized rats. Infused intravenously at 0.005 mumol/min/kg, this drug increased renal plasma flow and the clearances of PAH and insulin, effects which are consistent with decreased renovascular resistance. Concomitantly, urine flow and K excretion increased, and Na excretion tended to increase. All these effects of SK&F 82526 were antagonized by intravenous metoclopramide (1 mumol/min/kg). Despite its diuretic effect and despite its lack of effect on arterial blood pressure, SK&F 82526 increased arterial plasma renin concentration, suggesting a stimulatory effect on renin secretory rate. Taken together, our results demonstrate that the renal effects of SK&F 82526 mimic those of dopamine.