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Select whether the following drugs carry a risk of causing hyperkalemia or hypokalemia:

A.

Losartan

B.

Furosemide

C.

Spironolactone

D.

Lisinopril

E.

Digoxin

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is {"A":{"answers":"A"},"B":{"answers":"B"},"C":{"answers":"A"},"D":{"answers":"A"},"E":{"answers":"B"}}

  • Losartan: As an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), losartan reduces aldosterone secretion, leading to decreased potassium excretion and potential hyperkalemia, especially in patients with renal impairment or those on potassium supplements.
  • Furosemide: This loop diuretic promotes the excretion of sodium and potassium in the urine, commonly resulting in hypokalemia. Patients on furosemide often require potassium monitoring or supplementation.
  • Spironolactone: A potassium-sparing diuretic and aldosterone antagonist, spironolactone reduces potassium excretion in the distal nephron. This can lead to hyperkalemia, particularly when used with other potassium-elevating drugs.
  • Lisinopril: An ACE inhibitor that blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to II, reducing aldosterone levels and thereby decreasing potassium excretion. This places patients at risk for hyperkalemia.
  • Digoxin: This cardiac glycoside may cause hypokalemia indirectly by increasing sensitivity to potassium shifts. Additionally, low potassium levels enhance digoxin toxicity, so maintaining normal potassium is critical during therapy.


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Related Questions

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. "This will make it easier to cough up mucus.": Guaifenesin is an expectorant that works by thinning respiratory tract secretions, making it easier to mobilize and expel mucus through coughing. It does not suppress the cough reflex but facilitates a more productive cough.
B. "I should take this medication with other cough suppressants for best results.": Combining an expectorant like guaifenesin with a cough suppressant can be counterproductive. Suppressing the cough may prevent the effective clearing of loosened mucus, potentially worsening congestion.
C. "This medication will eliminate my cough within 24 hours.": Guaifenesin does not provide immediate relief and does not "eliminate" coughs. Its effectiveness depends on consistent use, and improvement may take a few days depending on the underlying cause of the cough.
D. "I should avoid drinking fluids while taking this medication.": Adequate fluid intake is essential while taking guaifenesin, as it enhances the medication's mucolytic effects. Dehydration can reduce its effectiveness and make secretions thicker and harder to clear.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. "The risk of suicidal thoughts is highest during the first few weeks of treatment.": This is the most accurate statement. During the initial weeks of antidepressant therapy, especially in adolescents and young adults, the risk of suicidal ideation may increase as energy levels improve before mood stabilizes. Close monitoring during this period is critical.
B. "Antidepressants eliminate the risk of suicidal thoughts in all patients.": While antidepressants help many patients, they do not eliminate the risk of suicidal thoughts. Some individuals may continue to experience or even develop new suicidal ideation, particularly early in treatment.
C. "Suicidal thoughts are a common side effect experienced by most patients.": Suicidal ideation is a serious but not common side effect. It occurs in a subset of patients, particularly younger individuals, and must be monitored closely, but it is not experienced by the majority.
D. "Suicidal thoughts only occur in patients with a history of suicide attempts.": Suicidal ideation can develop in individuals without a previous history. Risk factors include age, underlying psychiatric conditions, and individual response to medication—not just past behavior.

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