Vasopressin may contribute to lactic acidosis by causing which of the following?

Vasopressin may contribute to lactic acidosis by causing which of the following?

• A. Direct lactate production by vasopressin
• B. Severe tissue vasoconstriction leading to hypoperfusion
• C. Increased lactate clearance
• D. Metabolic alkalosis

Answer: (B)

Vasopressin can contribute to lactic acidosis through its strong peripheral vasoconstrictive effects. By constricting small vessels, it reduces tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery. When tissues are underperfused, cells shift toward anaerobic metabolism and produce more lactate, which accumulates and lowers pH, causing lactic acidosis. Vasopressin does not directly generate lactate, and increased lactate clearance would lessen lactate rather than cause it. Metabolic alkalosis would raise pH, not create lactic acidosis.

Vasopressin can contribute to lactic acidosis through its strong peripheral vasoconstrictive effects. By constricting small vessels, it reduces tissue perfusion and oxygen delivery. When tissues are underperfused, cells shift toward anaerobic metabolism and produce more lactate, which accumulates and lowers pH, causing lactic acidosis. Vasopressin does not directly generate lactate, and increased lactate clearance would lessen lactate rather than cause it. Metabolic alkalosis would raise pH, not create lactic acidosis.