Diuretic Activity in Rats LIPSCHITZ Test

A method for testing diuretic activity in rats has been described by Lipschitz et al. (1943). The test is based on water and sodium excretion in test animals and compared to rats treated with a high dose of urea. The Lipschitz-value is the quotient between excretion by test animals and excretion by the urea control. 

The Lipschitz test has been proven to be a standard method and a very useful tool for screening of potential diuretics. 

The method has been modified in various ways by several authors. Cummings et al. (1960) recommended a sequential procedure with criteria for acceptance or rejection of test drugs. Kau et al. (1984) recommended a method for screening diuretic agents in the rat using normal saline (4 % body weight) as hydrating fluid. 

Klatt et al. (1975) described a method of collecting urine excreted by large animals. On the basis of urine funnels used in rats, an appropriate larger metabolism cage made out of transparent, rigid polyvinyl chloride was used. The cage was improved by a built-in sieve cone which assured good separation of urine and feces. A device to measure and record the time and amount of voided urine was attached. Urine was collected in a vessel with a hose connection from the bottom to 

Cummings JR, Haynes JD, Lipchuck LM, Ronsberg MA (1960) A sequential probability ratio method for detecting compounds with diuretic activity in rats. J Pharmacol Exp Ther 128 414—418 

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