Renal Function in Male Sprague-Dawley Rats Concurrently Exposed to Long-Term Nicotine (3-{1-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidinyl}Pyridine) and Methylated Spirits (Methyl Alcohol)

Abstract

Abuse of nicotine and methylated spirits is a global problem. The current study determined the concurrent influence of nicotine and methylated spirits on renal hemodynamics. Two series of experimental protocols were designed: conscious and anesthetized vehicle loading. Conscious animals received nicotine (0.1 mg.kg−1 bwt, 0.26–0.30 mL), methylated spirits (1.0 g.kg −1 bwt, 0.26–0.30 mL), combined nicotine and methylated spirits, and control animals (water, 0.26–0.30 mL). Anesthetized animals were challenged with a continuous jugular infusion of 0.077M NaCl. Plasma nicotine concentration was significantly elevated in combined conscious treatments by comparison with animals infused nicotine alone. Plasma arginine vasopressin was significantly attenuated in combined conscious groups, and those infused methylated spirits alone. Aldosterone was elevated in all conscious groups. Both plasma ethanol and methanol concentrations were elevated in rats concurrently administered nicotine and methylated spirits compared with those given methylated spirits alone. Urinary Na+ levels were significantly elevated in all anesthetized groups associated with attenuated aldosterone concentrations. Plasma nicotine concentrations were increased in combined treatments. Plasma ethanol levels were significantly reduced and elevated in rats concurrently exposed to nicotine and methylated spirits, respectively. The present study suggests that chronic exposure to methylated spirits alone and in combination with nicotine increases urinary Na+ loss. The renal toxicity is manifested hypothetically via elevations in plasma nicotine and methanol concentrations. This implies that people who concurrently consume methylated spirits and smoke cigarettes have an increased risk of renal failure by being predisposed to fluid and electrolyte disturbances.