To study the possible role of arginine vasopressin (AVP) in the control of haemostasis
AVP infusions at 3 doses (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mU/kg/min) were performed in 6 male volunteers.
Both plasma and platelet AVP concentrations rose in a dose-related manner. At doses
of 0.2 and 0.3 mU/kg/min there was an increase in the plasma concentrations of both
plasma Factor VIII and von Willebrand factor. The data support the hypothesis that
AVP, by interacting with platelets and stimulating factor VIII and von Willebrand
factor release, plays a role in the control of haemostasis.
Key words
Arginine vasopressin - Platelets - Factor VIII - von Wille-brand factor