Effects of neurotensin and substance P on plasma insulin, glucagon and glucose levels.

Neurotensin and substance P given iv 5, 10, 20 and 30 minutes prior to blood collection produce hypoinsulinemia, hyperglucagonemia and hyperglycemia in the rat. Glucagon similarly produces hyperglycemia in rats but results in hyperinsulinemia. On a molar basis neurotensin is ca. 10 and 30 times more active in inducing hyperglycemia than substance P and glucagon, respectively. The enhanced glucogenic effects of neurotensin and substance P over glucagon may well result from their inhibition of insulin release. Neurotensin and substance P may be important in glucose homeostasis.