Suppressed basal antidiuretic hormone release during cyclooxygenase inhibition in conscious dogs

Both in vitro and in vivo experiments suggest that prostaglandins may affect antidiuretic hormone (ADH) release centrally. In addition, other studies show that prostaglandins administered peripherally may cause ADH release. However, these latter studies have been flawed by hemodynamic alterations and the use of anesthetics, which make interpretation difficult. The present study was designed to test for involvement of prostaglandins produced outside the central nervous system in ADH release in conscious dogs. Administration of meclofenamate (2 mg/kg and 2 mg X kg-1 X h 1, iv) resulted in a consistent fall in plasma ADH levels in five dogs. This diminution of ADH release occurred with no change in systemic hemodynamics, arterial blood gases, or plasma osmolality, suggesting that prostaglandins are important mediators of basal ADH release in the conscious dog. Because meclofenamate does not cross the blood-brain barrier, prostaglandins produced outside the central nervous system appear to be involved in this process. The specific prostaglandin involved or the site of action of prostaglandins on ADH release is not clear at this time.