How to prepare
Your practitioner or the ordering clinician may give specific instructions about medication, diet, and posture before this test. Some medications (including spironolactone, ACE inhibitors, and beta-blockers) can significantly affect aldosterone results and may need to be paused. Do not stop any medication without discussing this with your practitioner first. Maintaining a normal sodium intake in the days leading up to the test is generally recommended. Collection is often done in the morning after sitting quietly for 15–30 minutes.
After the test
Aldosterone results are almost always interpreted alongside renin. If both are ordered, your practitioner will calculate the ratio. An abnormal aldosterone:renin ratio may prompt further investigation including imaging of the adrenal glands. Adrenal conditions that cause excess aldosterone are often surgically or medically treatable.
Your test results will be available in your private dashboard. If there are any urgent issues, we'll let you know so you can follow up with your health professional.
Understanding results
Aldosterone is measured in picomoles per litre (pmol/L) and reference ranges vary by posture (seated versus standing) and laboratory. Results are most meaningful when interpreted alongside renin and potassium levels.
- Aldosterone:renin ratio (ARR): The key calculation for screening primary hyperaldosteronism. An elevated ARR with a high aldosterone level is strongly suggestive.
- Low aldosterone: Can indicate adrenal insufficiency or secondary causes where adrenal signalling is suppressed.
Because posture, medications, salt intake, and time of day all affect results, interpretation requires clinical context. Your results should be reviewed by a practitioner with access to your medication history.