FCPS part 1 Medicine solved mcqs with explanation Q4

FCPS part 1 Medicine solved mcqs with explanation

Q4: Captopril causes:

a) Hyperkalemia

b) Hypernatremia

c) Hypokalemia

d) Hypercalcemia

Correct Answer: a

Explanation:

Captopril is one of the ACEI (Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor). Major side effects of ACEIs are cough (due to increased levels of bradykinin), angioedema, hyperkalemia ,proteinuria.

Hyperkalemia with ACEI therapy occurs because:

Renin-Angiotensin system is a potent stimulator of aldosterone release. Aldosterone inturn conserves sodium & increases the excretion of potassium. With ACEIs, the rennin-angiotensin system is inhibited, so is aldosterone secretion, resulting in low plasma levels of aldosterone. Low aldosterone prevents the excretion of potassium, which builds up in body resulting in hyperkalemia.