Background: Atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) is a 28 amino acid hormone secreted by atrial monocytes in response to local wall stretch. Recent studies have shown that glucocorticoids can express ANP genes and elevate its level. Ketokonazol is an anti-adrenal drug used to reduced glucocorticoids level, thus may result in reduction in ANP level. Thus, the present study was conducted to determine the physiologic effects of ANP on rats receiving Ketokonazol.

Materials and Methods: Human atria were used for ANP. For ANP extraction preparation, tissue was boiled in specific solutions to inactivate intrinsic protease. Then cooling was carried out at 4 degrees centigrade and homogenization and centrifugation were occurred. PH was regulated using dialysis procedure.

Results: Pulse, systolic and diastolic pressures were revealed to be higher in Ketokonazol group. This may be due to reduction in vascular compliance. Injecting human atrial extract may decrease blood pressure by a slow slope.

Conclusion: ANP may be safely used in atherosclerotic patients. Further clinical trials are suggested.