Adrenal Gland Hormones – NCLEX Guide to Sugar, Salt & Sex

The adrenal glands play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, electrolytes, and sexual characteristics through three primary hormones. A simple way to remember them for the NCLEX is the 3 S’s:

• Sugar (Glucocorticoids)

• Salt (Mineralocorticoids)

• Sex (Androgens)

Understanding these hormones is essential for answering NCLEX questions on endocrine disorders, such as Addison’s disease and Cushing’s syndrome.

The 3 S’s of Adrenal Gland Hormones

1. Sugar – Glucocorticoids (Cortisol)

Function:
✔️ Regulates blood sugar by stimulating gluconeogenesis
✔️ Suppresses the immune response
✔️ Helps the body adapt to stress

NCLEX Tip:
📌 Cushing’s Syndrome → Too much cortisol → Hyperglycemia, weight gain, moon face
📌 Addison’s Disease → Too little cortisol → Hypoglycemia, weakness, fatigue

2. Salt – Mineralocorticoids (Aldosterone)

Function:
✔️ Regulates sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) balance
✔️ Maintains blood pressure and hydration

NCLEX Tip:
📌 Excess Aldosterone (Conn’s Syndrome) → Hypertension, hypokalemia
📌 Aldosterone Deficiency (Addison’s Disease) → Hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hypotension

3. Sex – Androgens (Testosterone & Estrogen Precursors)

Function:
✔️ Responsible for secondary sexual characteristics
✔️ Supports muscle and bone growth

NCLEX Tip:
📌 Excess Androgens in Females → Hirsutism, acne, irregular periods (e.g., PCOS)
📌 Deficiency in Males → Low libido, muscle weakness

NCLEX Question Example

A patient with Addison’s disease presents with fatigue, hypotension, and hyperkalemia. Which hormone deficiency is most responsible for these symptoms?

A) Glucocorticoids
B) Mineralocorticoids
C) Androgens
D) Epinephrine

💡 Correct Answer: B) Mineralocorticoids – Low aldosterone causes hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, and hypotension.

Conclusion

The 3 S’s of adrenal hormones (Sugar, Salt, Sex) are vital for NCLEX preparation. Disorders like Cushing’s, Addison’s, and Conn’s Syndrome often appear in NCLEX questions.

📌 Want to ace NCLEX endocrine questions? Visit King of the Curve NCLEX Resources for high-yield visuals!

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