Effect of glucose administration on bilirubin excretion in the rabbit

The effect of i.v. infusion of glucose on the hepatic handling of bilirubin was examined in rabbits. A significant increase in the excretion of conjugated bilirubin into the bile was observed, accompanied by a decrease in bilirubinemia. Hepatic bilirubin concentrations were lowered and the UDP-glucose concentrations and liver UDP-glucuronosyl and UDP-glucosyl transferase activities increased.