Effect of furosemide on peripheral venous compliance following ureteral ligation in the adult dog.

The effect of furosemide on peripheral venous compliance in the absence of the diuretic effect of the drug was examined. Following bilateral ligation of the ureters, adult dogs were given furosemide, 2 mg/kg. A significant increase in peripheral venous compliance was observed as early as ten minutes after the drug was given (120% of control), and an additional increase was seen at 60 minutes after administration of the drug (136% of control). No change in peripheral venous compliance was observed in animals receiving only the furosemide vehicle, nor was there any change in animals in which bilateral nephrectomy had been performed prior to the administration of furosemide. These results indicate that furosemide produces a significant increase in peripheral venous compliance, which is independent of its diuretic action. However, the presence of the kidneys appears to be necessary for this effect.