Prescribing Safety Assessment (PSA) Practice Exam

Which class of antihypertensive medications can potentially lead to renal failure?

1. ACE Inhibitors

2. All antihypertensives

3. Calcium Channel Blockers

4. Diuretics

The correct answer is: All antihypertensives

The choice indicating that all antihypertensives can potentially lead to renal failure recognizes that while each class of antihypertensive medication works differently, there is a risk associated with several of them. Many antihypertensive agents can impact renal function, particularly under specific circumstances such as volume depletion, renal artery stenosis, or concurrent use of other medications affecting the kidneys. For example, ACE inhibitors are commonly used but can lead to renal impairment, especially in patients with pre-existing conditions affecting renal blood flow. Diuretics primarily work by promoting diuresis and can lead to dehydration or electrolyte imbalances that might stress renal function. Calcium channel blockers generally have a less direct effect on renal function, but they still may contribute to complications in certain scenarios. Understanding that renal failure can be a risk when using antihypertensive medications highlights the importance of monitoring kidney function in patients receiving these drugs. Adjustments may be needed based on renal changes to mitigate the risk of renal failure.