How do ARBs affect aldosterone secretion?

How do ARBs affect aldosterone secretion?

• A. Reduced aldosterone secretion
• B. Increased aldosterone secretion
• C. No effect on aldosterone
• D. Increased potassium excretion

Answer: (A)

Angiotensin II normally drives aldosterone release from the adrenal cortex. Blocking the AT1 receptor with ARBs stops this signal, so aldosterone secretion falls. In other words, ARBs reduce aldosterone production. Since aldosterone promotes potassium excretion in the kidney, a decrease in aldosterone would actually lessen potassium excretion—not increase it, which is why the option about increased potassium excretion isn’t correct.

Angiotensin II normally drives aldosterone release from the adrenal cortex. Blocking the AT1 receptor with ARBs stops this signal, so aldosterone secretion falls. In other words, ARBs reduce aldosterone production. Since aldosterone promotes potassium excretion in the kidney, a decrease in aldosterone would actually lessen potassium excretion—not increase it, which is why the option about increased potassium excretion isn’t correct.