Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)

Definition

Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and released by the posterior pituitary gland. It helps regulate water balance in the body by increasing water reabsorption in the kidneys.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. ADH is also known as vasopressin.
2. It acts on the collecting ducts of the nephron in the kidneys to promote water reabsorption.
3. ADH release is stimulated when blood osmolarity increases, indicating dehydration.
4. Alcohol inhibits ADH secretion, leading to increased urine production.
5. A deficiency in ADH can lead to diabetes insipidus, characterized by excessive urination and thirst.

Review Questions

• What triggers the release of antidiuretic hormone?
• How does ADH affect kidney function?
• What condition results from a deficiency of ADH?

Related terms

Hypothalamus:

A brain region responsible for producing hormones that control various bodily functions, including ADH.

Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney where filtration and reabsorption occur.

Osmolarity:

A measure of solute concentration in blood or other fluids, influencing ADH release.