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Renin, aldosterone and cortisol during ethanol intoxication and hangover
Acta Physiologica Scandinavica
|May 1, 1979
Summary
Ethanol intoxication and hangover significantly alter stress hormone levels, including plasma cortisol (PC), plasma aldosterone (PA), and plasma renin activity (PRA), with individual responses varying greatly. These changes may relate to dehydration and hormonal shifts.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Human Physiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Ethanol consumption is known to affect the endocrine system.
- The specific impact of ethanol intoxication and subsequent hangover on key hormonal axes, including the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, requires further elucidation.
- Understanding these effects is crucial for comprehending the physiological consequences of alcohol use.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of ethanol intoxication and hangover on plasma renin activity (PRA), plasma aldosterone (PA), and plasma cortisol (PC) concentrations in healthy men.
- To examine the temporal dynamics and individual variations in hormonal responses to ethanol.
- To explore the relationship between hormonal changes, posture, and potential contributing factors like dehydration and electrolyte balance.
Main Methods:
- Seven healthy male participants were studied under controlled clinical conditions for 18 hours.
- Measurements of PRA, PA, and PC were taken at various time points following ethanol ingestion.
- The study also assessed the impact of water ingestion and postural changes (supine vs. upright) on these hormonal levels.
Main Results:
- Significant individual variations were observed in the response of PRA, PA, and PC to ethanol.
- Ethanol ingestion initially suppressed PC but later stimulated PRA, PA, and PC at specific time points.
- A dissociation between PRA and PA was noted, although they correlated well intra-individually; plasma arginine vasopressin (AVP) and PC were also correlated.
Conclusions:
- Ethanol exhibits a biphasic effect on PC, with initial suppression followed by stimulation.
- Changes in PA and PC, and the dissociation of PRA and PA, may be linked to dehydration, altered hypothalamic-pituitary secretion, and electrolyte balance.
- Upright posture appears to amplify the stimulating effects of ethanol on PRA, PA, and PC.