Aldosterone/PRA Ratio

You should get an aldosterone/PRA ratio test if you have high blood pressure that is hard to control despite three or more medicines, high blood pressure with low potassium, or high blood pressure at a young age. It is also recommended for an adrenal mass, sleep apnea with hypertension, and a family history of early hypertension or stroke.

Fasting is not required for an aldosterone/PRA ratio test. Give your sample mid-morning, after being awake and upright for about 2 hours, then seated for 5–15 minutes. Maintain normal salt intake. Some blood pressure medicines, especially spironolactone, may need stopping weeks before, but only under your doctor’s guidance. Low potassium should be corrected first.

No, fasting is not required for an aldosterone/PRA ratio test. You can eat and drink normally and maintain your usual salt intake. More importantly, give your sample mid-morning after being upright for about 2 hours, and follow your doctor’s advice about any blood pressure medicines before the test.