Which mineralocorticoid is used in treatment of adrenal insufficiency?

Which mineralocorticoid is used in treatment of adrenal insufficiency?

• A. Hydrocortisone
• B. Dexamethasone
• C. Florinef
• D. Spironolactone

Answer: (C)

In adrenal insufficiency, there is deficiency of aldosterone, which leads to poor sodium reabsorption, low blood pressure, and higher potassium. Replacing the mineralocorticoid component is essential to restore fluid and electrolyte balance. Fludrocortisone (Florinef) is the mineralocorticoid used for this purpose. It acts on mineralocorticoid receptors in the kidney to promote sodium retention and potassium excretion, helping to expand intravascular volume and normalize blood pressure and electrolytes. Hydrocortisone can provide glucocorticoid replacement and some mineralocorticoid activity, but for targeted mineralocorticoid replacement, fludrocortisone is the appropriate choice. Dexamethasone has minimal mineralocorticoid effect, and spironolactone blocks mineralocorticoid receptors rather than replacing them, so it’s not used to treat mineralocorticoid deficiency.

In adrenal insufficiency, there is deficiency of aldosterone, which leads to poor sodium reabsorption, low blood pressure, and higher potassium. Replacing the mineralocorticoid component is essential to restore fluid and electrolyte balance. Fludrocortisone (Florinef) is the mineralocorticoid used for this purpose. It acts on mineralocorticoid receptors in the kidney to promote sodium retention and potassium excretion, helping to expand intravascular volume and normalize blood pressure and electrolytes. Hydrocortisone can provide glucocorticoid replacement and some mineralocorticoid activity, but for targeted mineralocorticoid replacement, fludrocortisone is the appropriate choice. Dexamethasone has minimal mineralocorticoid effect, and spironolactone blocks mineralocorticoid receptors rather than replacing them, so it’s not used to treat mineralocorticoid deficiency.