Alcohol inhibits the secretion of:……. *
oxytocin
antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
prolactin (PRL)
parathyroid hormone (PTH)
The correct answer and explanation is :
The correct answer is antidiuretic hormone (ADH).
Explanation:
Alcohol inhibits the secretion of antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin. ADH is a hormone produced by the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary gland. Its primary function is to regulate the body’s fluid balance by promoting water retention in the kidneys. When ADH is released, it signals the kidneys to conserve water, reduce urine output, and maintain hydration.
However, when alcohol is consumed, it suppresses the release of ADH from the posterior pituitary gland. This leads to a reduction in the kidneys’ ability to retain water, causing an increase in urine production. Consequently, alcohol consumption results in frequent urination and dehydration, as the body loses more water than it takes in.
The mechanism behind alcohol’s inhibition of ADH secretion is thought to involve the central nervous system. Alcohol interferes with the normal signaling processes in the brain, particularly in areas that regulate the release of hormones such as ADH. Specifically, alcohol may decrease the activity of the neurons in the hypothalamus that are responsible for stimulating the release of ADH. Additionally, alcohol affects the receptor sites on the kidneys that are involved in the water retention process, further exacerbating the increased urination.
This inhibition of ADH by alcohol contributes to several physiological effects. One of the most notable effects is dehydration. As alcohol increases urine output and inhibits water reabsorption, the body becomes dehydrated. This can lead to symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and dry mouth, which are often associated with hangovers.
In contrast, alcohol does not significantly inhibit the secretion of other hormones like oxytocin, prolactin (PRL), or parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the same manner. Thus, the primary hormonal impact of alcohol consumption is on ADH secretion, leading to altered fluid balance and increased urination.