Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is produced by which gland?

• A. Anterior pituitary
• B. Pancreas
• C. Adrenal cortex
• D. Posterior pituitary

Answer: (D)

ADH is synthesized in the hypothalamus and transported to the posterior pituitary, where it is released into the bloodstream. Among the glands listed, the posterior pituitary is the source that releases ADH. The anterior pituitary makes other hormones, the pancreas produces insulin and glucagon, and the adrenal cortex makes corticosteroids like cortisol and aldosterone—none of these secrete ADH. Understanding this distinction helps explain why ADH activity is linked to the posterior pituitary’s release mechanism and to water balance in the kidneys.