The Effect of Glucagon, Epinephrine and Vasopressine on the Plasma Concentration and Renal Excretion of Electrolytes in Man¹

Abstract

Rapid intravenous injection of glucagon and epinephrine to normal man first caused a shortlasting increase of the serum potassium concentration. Subsequent to this increase a more longlasting decrease was found. If the hormones were given slowly no hyperkalemia was observed.

Vasopressine infusion, giving a marked increase in blood glucose, resulted in a serum potassium increase which returned to normal after end of infusion.