Antidipsogenic action of vasoactive intestinal peptide in the rat

The effect of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) on the intake of water was studied in the rat. Intracerebroventricular administration of vasoactive intestinal peptide strongly inhibited drinking in rats deprived of water, but peripheral administration had no effect, indicating that the site of action was central. Drinking induced by angiotensin II was also markedly blocked by simultaneous administration of vasoactive intestinal peptide. The results indicate that in the rat, vasoactive intestinal peptide may play a role in the control of intake of water as a neuropeptide thirst inhibitor.