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Hypertension first-line therapy — GPhC CRA MCQ

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EasyCardiovascular TherapeuticsHypertension first-line therapyGPhC CRA

A 46-year-old man of Black African family origin has newly diagnosed hypertension. His daytime ABPM average is 158/98 mmHg, eGFR is 82 mL/min/1.73 m² and potassium is 4.4 mmol/L. He has no diabetes and takes no regular medicines. What is the most appropriate alternative?

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Correct answer: E — Recommend amlodipine as first-line treatment

Calcium-channel blockers are preferred first-line antihypertensives for adults of Black African or African-Caribbean family origin without type 2 diabetes. ACE inhibitors are usually first-line in younger adults who are not of Black African or African-Caribbean family origin. Beta-blockers are not first-line for uncomplicated hypertension. Spironolactone is reserved for selected resistant hypertension after review of potassium and renal function.

Reference: https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/students-and-trainees/pharmacist-education-and-training/registration-assessment