No abstract

A simple, reproducible extraction method has been developed, which is capable of measuring calcitonin in normal individuals. Normal calcitonin levels show a circadian variation, with a peak around midday and respond to known stimuli for calcitonin release.

Diabetes is one of the complications of thiazide therapy and the following study was carried out to determine whether clorexolone (' Nefrolan ') has a diabetogenic effect. Nefrolan brand of clorexolone is described chemically as 5-chloro-2-cyclohexyl-1-oxo-6-sulphamoylisoindoline. Clorexolone does show some structural features in common with chlorothiazide, but it is not a thiazide. The mechanism of action is believed to be analogous to that of chlorothiazide, and involves the inhibition of the reabsorption of sodium ions by the kidney tubule cells. In common with the benzothiadiazine diuretics, clorexolone may cause potassium depletion and the blood uric acid may rise. It appears to have a potency and duration of action similar to those of hydrochlorothiazide. (Cornish ct al. 1963). Material and MethodThe studv was carried out over the period October-December 1i1c;c,. Unselected patients, adn;i11ed to general llledical wards, and in nce1i of diuretic or hypotensi,c therapy, were treated with clorexolone (Table I) or hydrochlorothiazide (Table II). None of the patients were known diabetics. Blood was taken from each of '.ll pa-3:i'.! THE BRITISH JOURNAL OF CLINICAL PRACTICE Table I. Patients on Clorexolone Case No.