Which electrolyte level change is typically expected after fludrocortisone therapy?

Fludrocortisone is a synthetic corticosteroid that acts as a mineralocorticoid, primarily affecting electrolyte balance in the body. After initiating therapy with fludrocortisone, an expected outcome is an increase in sodium levels. This is due to its action on the kidneys, where it enhances sodium reabsorption in the renal tubules, leading to sodium retention. Consequently, since sodium is retained, the levels in the bloodstream rise.

Furthermore, fludrocortisone can also influence the levels of other electrolytes, particularly potassium. Typically, when sodium is retained due to fludrocortisone therapy, potassium can be excreted in larger quantities, often leading to a decrease in potassium levels. However, in this context, the most significant and direct change associated with fludrocortisone is the increase in sodium levels, which aligns with the physiological effects of this medication.