Inhibition of nitric oxide synthesis increases blood pressure in healthy humans

Abstract

Basal generation of nitric oxide influences total peripheral resistance and blood pressure in healthy humans. The natriuresis induced by L-NMMA may be related to the increase in blood pressure, or arise from inhibition of the intrarenal actions of nitric oxide. Any decrease in nitric oxide generation, as has been postulated to occur in essential hypertension, could have substantial effects on blood pressure and tissue blood flow.