Effect of sodium bicarbonate administration on renal function of horses.

This research article studies the effects of sodium bicarbonate administration on the renal function of horses. The findings suggest that the administration of sodium bicarbonate causes numerous changes in renal function, emphasizing fluid balance and acid-base regulation.

Research Methodology

• The study involved 6 Standardbred mares.
• These horses were given sodium bicarbonate both orally and intravenously with the aim of observing changes in their renal function.
• The sodium bicarbonate was administered in three different oral doses (1500, 1000, and 250 mg/kg of body weight) and one intravenous dose (250 mg/kg).
• For control, some horses were given water orally (3L).
• Blood and urine samples were collected immediately before and every hour for 12 hours after administration of sodium bicarbonate. This allowed researchers to observe changes in renal function occurring over time.

Results and Observations

• Administration of sodium bicarbonate led to key changes in the functioning of the horse’s kidneys including increases in urine flow, electrolyte-free water reabsorption, urine concentrations of sodium and bicarbonate, and other urinary and blood parameters.
• On the other hand, sodium bicarbonate attenuated the reduction with time of urine excretion and clearance of potassium, chloride, and osmoles, resulting in a reduction of urine osmolality.
• Glomerular filtration rate and plasma aldosterone and atrial natriuretic peptide concentrations did not change, suggesting some renal functions were unaffected.

Conclusions and Implications

• The renal responses to sodium bicarbonate emphasize the conservation of plasma volume and the reestablishment of acid-base balance rather than controlling hyperosmolality through the processes of diuresis, natriuresis, and increased bicarbonaturia.
• This implies that there is a significant fluid shift from the extravascular space (or outside the blood vessels) to the vascular compartment (or inside the blood vessels).
• This shift is managed by eliminating the fluid via diuresis, thereby preventing an excessive volume of blood (hypervolemia).
• This study could provide foundational knowledge for understanding the impacts of sodium bicarbonate administration in horses which might be useful in equine medicine and healthcare.