skip to main content

Hypertension first-line choice — GPhC CRA MCQ

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

ModerateCardiovascular TherapeuticsHypertension first-line choiceGPhC CRA

A 58-year-old Black African patient without diabetes presents with a new prescription query after two clinic blood pressure readings above target. There is no ankle swelling, heart failure or renal impairment documented. What is the most appropriate alternative?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: C — Amlodipine 5 mg once daily

A calcium-channel blocker is usually the appropriate first-line option in this patient group. ACE inhibitors are commonly used in younger patients or people with diabetes, but the scenario points towards a calcium-channel blocker. In this scenario, the correct option is amlodipine 5 mg once daily. The other options are plausible but do not address the key clinical, legal or safety issue as directly. This aligns with UK pharmacy practice guidance cited in the reference field.

Reference: NICE CKS; BNF