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Potassium and ACE inhibitor — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateDrug InteractionsPotassium and ACE inhibitorGPhC CRA

A patient taking ramipril and spironolactone asks to buy potassium effervescent tablets for leg cramps. Their last potassium was 5.0 mmol/L. 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: D — Potassium supplements can cause dangerous hyperkalaemia with these medicines

ACE inhibitors and spironolactone can both increase serum potassium. Adding potassium supplements with a baseline potassium of 5.0 mmol/L could cause clinically significant hyperkalaemia. Leg cramps should be assessed for other causes rather than self-treating with potassium. Salt substitutes containing potassium should also be avoided unless prescribed.

Reference: BNF