SOMATOSTATIN ANALOG SMS-201-995 EFFECTS ON THE CIRRHOTIC KIDNEY

The effect of a somatostatin analogue SMS 201-995 was studied in five cirrhotic patients with ascitis, oliguria and low urine sodium. The infusion of 40 mug/h/24 h produced a significant increase in urine volume and in creatinine clearance. No significant changes in renine, aldosterone, free water clearance or urinary sodium excretion were noted. The present finding suggest an increase in glomerular filtraltion rate and urine volume that could be a consequence of redistribution of arterial blood flow from the splacnic vascular bed to the renal circulation. The SMS 201-995 may be useful in the management of renal abnormalities complicating liver cirrhosis.