THE EFFECT OF ESTROGEN ON WATER AND ELECTROLYTE METABOLISM. I. THE NORMAL

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Abstract
The effect of daily administration of estradiol benzoate on water and electrolyte metabolism was studied in 11 normal human subjects. A slight, transient but significant decrease in daily urinary output of Na, Cl and water was seen. Plasma Na and Cl levels were not affected. There was no significant change in urinary K output. Urinary PO4 output was unchanged in 4 of 6 subjects. There was a decrease in total serum protein and in venous hematocrit, suggesting an increase in plasma volume. Evidence is presented that the transient decrease in urinary Na, Cl and water output is associated with an increase in extracellular volume.