Hypertension, heart failure, and dyslipidemia drug therapy decisions and monitoring parameters tested on the NAPLEX.
40 cards · mixed cards · AI-written, checked twice. Edit anything.
- What is the mechanism of action of ACE inhibitors?
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They block conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II, reducing vasoconstriction and aldosterone release.
- Why do ACE inhibitors commonly cause a dry cough?
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They increase bradykinin levels, which normally gets broken down by ACE.
- Are ACE inhibitors and ARBs safe during pregnancy?
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No, they are contraindicated due to risk of fetal renal toxicity and birth defects.
- What two lab values should be monitored after starting an ACE inhibitor or ARB?
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Serum potassium and serum creatinine (renal function).
- What is the mechanism of action of thiazide diuretics?
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They inhibit the Na+/Cl- symporter in the distal convoluted tubule, increasing sodium and water excretion.
- Both thiazide and loop diuretics commonly cause ____ due to increased distal sodium delivery and potassium wasting.
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hypokalemia
- What is the mechanism of action of loop diuretics?
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They inhibit the Na+/K+/2Cl- symporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of Henle.
- Which class of diuretics carries the highest risk of ototoxicity, especially at high IV doses?
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Loop diuretics, such as furosemide.
- What is a common dose-dependent side effect of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers like amlodipine?
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Peripheral edema.
- Why are non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (verapamil, diltiazem) generally avoided in HFrEF?
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They have negative inotropic effects that can worsen systolic heart failure.
- Why should verapamil or diltiazem be used cautiously with beta blockers?
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The combination can cause severe bradycardia or heart block from additive AV node suppression.
- In which patient population are beta blockers considered a compelling indication for hypertension treatment?
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Patients with a history of myocardial infarction or coronary artery disease.
- What can happen if clonidine is stopped abruptly?
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Rebound hypertension.
- What autoimmune side effect is associated with long-term hydralazine use?
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Drug-induced lupus.
- Name a commonly used IV agent for treating a hypertensive emergency.
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Sodium nitroprusside (or IV labetalol/nicardipine).