Antihypertensives

Question 1

What are the most important adverse effects to remember for ACE inhibitors?

Answer 1

• Hypotension
• Electrolyte disturbance (typically hyperkalaemia)
• Dry cough

Question 2

What are the most important adverse effects to remember for calcium channel blockers?

Answer 2

• Hypotension

- Peripheral oedema and flushing

Question 3

What are the most important adverse effects to remember for thiazide diuretics?

Answer 3

• Hypotension
• Electrolyte disturbance (typically hypokalaemia)
• Gout

Question 4

What are the most important adverse effects to remember for potassium sparing diuretics?

Answer 4

• Hypotension
• Electrolyte disturbance (typically hyperkalaemia)
• Gynaecomastia

Question 5

What are the most important adverse effects to remember for loop diuretics?

Answer 5

• Hypotension

- Electrolyte disturbance (typically hyponatraemia)

Question 6

Describe the mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors

Answer 6

Inhibit ACE, thereby inhibiting conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II

Question 7

Describe the mechanism of action of ARBs

Answer 7

Blocks the action of angiotensin II

Question 8

Describe the mechanism of action of thiazide diuretics

Answer 8

Inhibit the sodium-chloride transporter in the DCT

Question 9

Describe the mechanism of action of loop diuretics

Answer 9

Inhibit the sodium-potassium pump in the ascending limb of loop of Henle

Question 10

Describe the mechanism of action of potassium sparing diuretics

Answer 10

Inhibit the action of aldosterone in the DCT

Question 11

Why do ACE inhibitors cause a dry cough?

Answer 11

Accumulation of bradykinin due to reduced degradation by ACE