What laboratory abnormality is caused by Fludrocortisone?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hypoglycemia
• C. Hypokalemia
• D. Hypernatremia

Answer: (C)

Fludrocortisone is a synthetic corticosteroid with potent mineralocorticoid activity, primarily used to treat conditions like adrenal insufficiency and orthostatic hypotension. Its pharmacological effects include sodium retention, increased potassium excretion, and water retention.

The correct answer, hypokalemia, is due to fludrocortisone's ability to promote sodium reabsorption in the kidneys. As sodium is reabsorbed, potassium is often excreted in exchange, leading to lower potassium levels in the blood. This is a hallmark effect of mineralocorticoids, including fludrocortisone, resulting in a condition known as hypokalemic metabolic alkalosis in some patients.

The other choices do not directly relate to the pharmacology of fludrocortisone. For instance, hyperkalemia is the opposite of what occurs with fludrocortisone treatment, and hypoglycemia is not typically associated with mineralocorticoid use. Hypernatremia could occur due to sodium retention; however, it is the hypokalemia that is a specific and notable laboratory abnormality linked to the use of fludrocortisone.