skip to main content

Fixed-Dose Combination Antihypertensives — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyGeneral Internal MedicineFixed-Dose Combination AntihypertensivesRACP Adult Medicine

A 70-year-old man on multiple antihypertensives (amlodipine, perindopril, indapamide) has a BP of 148/88 mmHg. He has had 3 admissions in the past year for hypertensive emergencies. His adherence is suspected to be poor. What is the most effective strategy to improve adherence?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Monitor BP more frequently at home

Single-pill combination (SPC/fixed-dose combination) therapy significantly improves medication adherence compared to equivalent multiple-pill regimens. By reducing pill burden and simplifying dosing, adherence improves by 20–30%. The 2019 Heart Foundation guidelines recommend SPCs as preferred first-line for most patients requiring combination antihypertensive therapy. Available Australian PBS-listed SPCs include perindopril/amlodipine, perindopril/indapamide, and triple combination perindopril/amlodipine/indapamide (Tripliam).

Reference: NHF – 2016 – Hypertension Guidelines; eTG – 2025 – Cardiovascular