Antidiuretic hormone (ADH)
Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is a chemical produced in the brain that causes the kidneys to release less water, decreasing the amount of urine produced. A high ADH level causes you to produce less urine; a low level results in greater urine production.
Normally, the amount of ADH in the body is higher during the night. High levels of ADH prevent you from having to urinate throughout the night. Low levels of ADH mean your body will produce large amounts of urine, so you likely will have to go to the bathroom during the night.
A developmental immaturity, which usually resolves on its own over time, may prevent the normal nighttime increase of ADH. Some diseases may also cause low levels of ADH, which can result in urine buildup in the body.
| Author: | Debby Golonka, MPH | Last Updated: November 12, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | Michael J. Sexton, MD - Pediatrics Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics | |
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