Endothelin-1 and Adrenomedullin Plasma Levels After Exposure to Fludrocortisone, Dexamethasone, and Spironolactone

Abstract

We asked whether plasma concentrations of endothelin-1 (ET-1) or adrenomedullin (ADM) are altered by different activity states of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS). Levels of ET-1 and ADM were studied in patients with primary aldosteronism (n = 15), essential hypertension (n = 15), and adrenal insufficiency (n = 7). Effects of fludrocortisone, dexamethasone, or spironolactone treatment on ET-1 and ADM levels were also analyzed. Plasma ET-1 and ADM concentrations did not differ significantly between the patient groups. After fludrocortisone, dexamethasone, or spironolactone treatment, both ET-1 and ADM did not change significantly. The data support the hypothesis that the RAAS is not directly linked with the ET-1/ADM system.

• aldosterone
• adrenal
• endothelin-1
• adrenomedullin
• hypertension

ACKNOWLEDGMENT

We would like to thank Dr. Nils G. Morgenthaler for his support.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.