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Potassium-sparing diuretic risk — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModerateCardiovascular TherapeuticsPotassium-sparing diuretic riskGPhC CRA

A patient with resistant hypertension is prescribed spironolactone 25mg once daily in addition to ramipril and amlodipine. Baseline potassium is 4.8 mmol/L. eGFR is 52 mL/min/1.73 m2. What monitoring is required?

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Correct answer: D — Check renal function and potassium soon after starting

Spironolactone can cause hyperkalaemia, particularly when combined with an ACE inhibitor or in reduced renal function. Renal function and potassium should be monitored after initiation and dose changes. The other tests do not address the main risk of this regimen.

Reference: BNF; NICE CKS