Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

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Which antihypertensive medication is associated with causing gout?

Beta Blockers
ACE Inhibitors
Thiazides
Calcium Channel Blockers

The correct answer is: Thiazides

Thiazide diuretics are known to potentially increase uric acid levels in the bloodstream, which can lead to the development of gout. Gout occurs when there is an excess of uric acid, causing the formation of urate crystals in joints, leading to painful inflammation. Thiazides work by promoting the excretion of sodium and water, but they also inhibit the renal excretion of uric acid. This dual effect can contribute to higher concentrations of uric acid, making individuals more susceptible to gout attacks. In contrast, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, and calcium channel blockers do not have a significant association with the development of gout in the same way that thiazides do. While there may be some instances where these medications could indirectly affect uric acid levels, they are not primarily recognized for this side effect, making thiazide diuretics the standout classification linked with gout. Hence, thiazides are the correct choice in this context.