Dipsogenic Effects of Intracarotid Infusions of Various Hyperosmolal Solutions

Thirst in response to intracarotid and intravenous infusions (1.5 ml/min) of various hypertonic, equi‐osmolal solutions was studied in the goat. Intracarotid infusions of 1 M NaCl and of 2 M fructose induced conspicuous cumulative drinking. The amount of water drunk during intracarotid infusions of 2 M urea and glycerol was only about a third of that consumed during the corresponding infusions of NaCl and fructose. During intracarotid infusions of 2 M galactose and glucose drinking was inconsistent. Of the intravenous infusions only hypertonic NaCl had a consistent dipsogenic effect. However, the amount of water consumed was considerably smaller and the latency time for drinking much longer than during the intracarotid infusions of NaCI. It is concluded that intracarotid infusions of hypertonic solutions act as considerably stronger thirst stimuli than corresponding intravenous infusions, and that the most pronounced dipsogenic effect is obtained by intracarotid infusions of those hypertonic solutions which also most effectively release antidiuretic hormone in the hydrated goat. The possibility is discussed that intracarotid infusions may stimulate the thirst mechanism indirectly via a rise in the Na+ concentration of the cerebrospinal fluid.