The anti-hypertensive effect of potassium loading in experimental hypertension: a comparison of sheep with other species.

The anti-hypertensive effect of potassium (K) loading in human essential hypertension and several types of experimental hypertension is well established. However, the mechanism of the anti-hypertensive effect is not understood. The natriuretic effect of a high K intake has lead many to conclude that the blood pressure lowering effect of K may be mediated through enhanced sodium (Na) excretion leading to negative Na status. Review of the literature suggests that the anti-hypertensive effect of K loading, at least in sheep, can not be explained simply by changes in Na excretion.