Laser Technician IBEC Board Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The role of anti-diuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, primarily involves regulating water retention in the body. ADH is produced in the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary gland in response to high plasma osmolality or low blood volume.

When released into the bloodstream, ADH acts on the kidneys, specifically the collecting ducts, enhancing their permeability to water. This allows more water to be reabsorbed back into the bloodstream rather than being excreted in urine, thereby concentrating the urine and helping to maintain optimal fluid balance and hydration levels in the body. This mechanism is crucial for preventing dehydration and regulating fluid balance.

While other hormones and mechanisms contribute to blood pressure regulation, the direct influence of ADH on water retention plays a significant role in maintaining blood volume and, consequently, blood pressure indirectly. However, its primary function is to control water retention, making the choice of ADH's role clear.