Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

Which antihypertensives may cause respiratory issues such as wheezing in asthmatics?

1. ACE Inhibitors

2. Calcium Channel Blockers

3. Beta Blockers

4. Thiazides

The correct answer is: Beta Blockers

Beta blockers are known to potentially cause respiratory issues such as wheezing, particularly in individuals with asthma. This is due to their mechanism of action, as they block beta-adrenergic receptors, which can lead to bronchoconstriction in those predisposed to airway hyperreactivity. While these medications can be beneficial for managing hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions, they must be used with caution in asthmatic patients due to this risk of exacerbating respiratory symptoms. Other antihypertensive classes listed, like ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, and thiazides, do not have this bronchodilatory effect. ACE inhibitors can cause cough as a side effect in some patients, but this is not typically associated with wheezing or bronchoconstriction. Calcium channel blockers and thiazides do not significantly affect respiratory function and are generally considered safer options for managing hypertension in asthmatics.