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Hypertension first-line treatment — GPhC CRA MCQ

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HardCardiovascular TherapeuticsHypertension first-line treatmentGPhC CRA

A 49-year-old of Black African family origin has untreated hypertension confirmed by ABPM, no type 2 diabetes and normal renal function. Which first-step medicine is preferred?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — A calcium-channel blocker such as amlodipine 5 mg daily

For adults of Black African or African–Caribbean family origin without type 2 diabetes, NICE step 1 offers a calcium-channel blocker. ACE inhibitors or ARBs are step-1 options for adults under 55 from other family backgrounds or for those with type 2 diabetes.

Reference: NICE NG136: hypertension in adults — recommendations: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng136/chapter/recommendations