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Plasma 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone in spironolactone-treated hypertensives
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|June 1, 1977
Summary
Spironolactone did not significantly affect 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone levels in hypertensive patients or healthy individuals. This study found no evidence of spironolactone inhibiting key adrenal hydroxylase enzymes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Hypertension Research
Background:
- Spironolactone is a medication used to treat hypertension and heart failure.
- Concerns exist regarding potential interference of spironolactone with adrenal steroidogenesis.
- 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone is a key steroid precursor affected by adrenal hydroxylase activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vivo effect of spironolactone on plasma 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone levels.
- To determine if spironolactone inhibits adrenal 11beta, 17alpha, and 21 hydroxylases.
Main Methods:
- Plasma 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone was measured using a specific radio-assay method.
- Assay method was validated to exclude drug interference.
- Measurements were compared between spironolactone-treated hypertensives, untreated hypertensives, and normotensive volunteers.
Main Results:
- Plasma 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone levels were similar across all study groups.
- No significant difference was observed between spironolactone-treated and untreated hypertensive individuals.
- No evidence of spironolactone inhibiting adrenal 11beta, 17alpha, or 21 hydroxylases in vivo.
Conclusions:
- Spironolactone does not appear to significantly inhibit adrenal 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone production in vivo.
- The drug does not interfere with key adrenal hydroxylase enzymes at the studied concentrations.
- Findings suggest spironolactone's safety profile regarding adrenal steroidogenesis in hypertensive patients.
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