Effect of Inhibition of Prostaglandin Synthesis on the Natriuresis Induced by Saline Infusion in Man

1. The effect of oral administration of an inhibitor of prostaglandin synthetase, indomethacin, on the natriuresis induced by the infusion of sodium chloride (saline) was studied in 11 healthy volunteers.

2. The administration of indomethacin did not alter sodium excretion before saline infusion, but it resulted in a significant increase of the natriuresis after saline infusion. This increase was not accompanied by any change in post-infusion urine flow rate or free water reabsorption.

3. It is suggested that intrarenal prostaglandins might suppress the natriuretic effect of saline infusion, probably by increasing sodium reabsorption in the distal nephron.