Ethanol withdrawal increases blood pressure and vascular oxidative stress: a role for angiotensin type 1 receptors

We evaluated the possible mechanisms underlying the oxidative stress induced by ethanol withdrawal. With this purpose, we verified the role of AT1 receptors in such response. Male Wistar rats were treated with ethanol 3% –9% (vol./vol.) for 21 days. Ethanol withdrawal was induced by abrupt discontinuation of the treatment. Experiments were performed 48 hours after ethanol discontinuation. Increased plasma levels of angiotensin II were detected after ethanol withdrawal. Losartan (10 mg/kg; p.o. gavage), a selectiv e AT1 receptor antagonist, impeded the increase in blood pressure induced by ethanol withdrawal.
Source: Journal of the American Society of Hypertension - Category: Cardiology Authors: Tags: Research Article Source Type: research