How Urine Is Concentrated

In the presence of ADH, the medullary collecting ducts become freely permeable to solute and water. As a consequence, the fluid entering the ducts (en route to the renal pelvis and subsequent elimination) acquires the concentration of the interstitial fluid of the medulla; i.e., the urine becomes concentrated.

How do the kidneys concentrate urine?

Urine is maximally concentrated under the influence of ADH, which opens water channels (aquaporins) in the collecting tubules in the inner medulla and allowing water to flow along the concentration gradient already established by the countercurrent mechanism in the loop of Henle.

What increases urine concentration?

Receiving antidiuretic hormone (ADH), which should cause the urine to become concentrated.