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Diltiazem atenolol — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDrug InteractionsDiltiazem atenololGPhC CRA

A patient taking atenolol is prescribed diltiazem modified-release and pulse is 54 beats per minute. What is the most important interaction to flag?

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

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Correct answer: A — Diltiazem with atenolol can increase bradycardia and heart block risk

Both medicines slow cardiac conduction and the low pulse makes the risk significant. In this scenario, the pharmacist should prioritise safe supply, appropriate counselling and timely referral or clarification where needed. This is the single best answer because the other options would either delay assessment, ignore a clinically significant risk, or create an unsafe legal or professional outcome.

Reference: BNF