Kaplan Nursing Entrance Practice Exam

Which hormones are released by the posterior pituitary gland?

1. Thyroxine and insulin

2. Antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin

3. Growth hormone and ACTH

4. Luteinizing hormone and prolactin

The correct answer is: Antidiuretic hormone and oxytocin

The posterior pituitary gland is responsible for the storage and release of specific hormones produced by the hypothalamus. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH), also known as vasopressin, plays a crucial role in regulating water balance in the body by promoting water reabsorption in the kidneys. This helps to concentrate urine and maintain blood pressure. Oxytocin is another vital hormone released by the posterior pituitary; it is involved in several functions, including stimulating uterine contractions during childbirth and facilitating milk ejection during breastfeeding. Understanding the roles of these hormones helps clarify their importance in bodily functions. In contrast, hormones like thyroxine and insulin are produced by other glands; thyroxine is secreted by the thyroid gland and regulates metabolism, while insulin is produced by the pancreas and helps in glucose metabolism. Growth hormone and ACTH, which are involved in growth and stress response respectively, are released by the anterior pituitary gland. Luteinizing hormone and prolactin also stem from the anterior pituitary and are involved in reproductive functions. Thus, the answer B accurately reflects the hormones released by the posterior pituitary gland.