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Metoclopramide increases plasma aldosterone concentration in man
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|December 1, 1977
Summary
Metoclopramide administration caused a significant increase in plasma aldosterone levels in humans. This effect appears independent of ACTH and prolactin, suggesting a direct action on the adrenal gland.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Metoclopramide is a dopamine antagonist.
- Its effect on aldosterone secretion is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of metoclopramide on plasma aldosterone levels.
- To determine the mechanism of metoclopramide-induced aldosterone release.
Main Methods:
- Plasma aldosterone was measured after intravenous metoclopramide administration in normal subjects, hypophysectomized subjects, and a patient with adrenal hyperplasia.
- Dexamethasone was used to suppress ACTH in some normal subjects.
Main Results:
- Metoclopramide caused a prompt increase in plasma aldosterone in all subjects.
- No significant changes were observed in blood pressure, electrolytes, plasma renin activity, or plasma cortisol.
- The aldosterone increase was not mediated by ACTH or prolactin.
Conclusions:
- Metoclopramide stimulates plasma aldosterone concentration.
- The mechanism may involve a direct action on the adrenal glomerulosa zone or an unknown pathway.