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Pharmacology Corticosteroids

Mineralocorticoids and Related Agents

Topic overview

Start with the big picture

The MR is a cytosolic nuclear receptor found in the distal nephron and several other tissues. When activated, it promotes expression of ENaC and Na⁺/K⁺-ATPase, increasing sodium and water reabsorption while increasing potassium and hydrogen excretion. The lesson contrasts aldosterone and synthetic agonists, including fludrocortisone, with MR antagonists such as spironolactone, eplerenone, and finerenone. It connects these mechanisms to uses including adrenal disorders, hypertension, heart failure, and fluid accumulation, while highlighting clinically important risks such as changes in blood pressure, edema, electrolyte disturbance, and endocrine effects. Aldosterone synthase inhibitors and drug-interaction considerations are also introduced, providing a framework for comparing these related agents.

Learning objectives

What you'll learn

  • Describe MR location, signaling, and effects on sodium, potassium, and hydrogen handling.
  • Distinguish mineralocorticoid agonists from MR antagonists by mechanism and therapeutic role.
  • Identify key adverse effects and monitoring considerations for agonists and antagonists.
  • Summarize the role of aldosterone synthase inhibitors and relevant interaction concerns.
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