A client is started on gemfibrozil to assist in the lowering of triglyceride level. Which of the following side effects is associated with gemfibrozil?
gallstones
decreased PT time
hyperkalemia
Increased creatinine clearance
The Correct Answer is A
A) Gallstones: Gemfibrozil is associated with an increased risk of gallstones. This medication can alter the metabolism of lipids and bile, potentially leading to the formation of gallstones. Clients should be monitored for symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort that could indicate gallbladder issues.
B) Decreased PT time: Gemfibrozil does not typically affect prothrombin time (PT). Instead, it may interact with anticoagulants and potentially increase PT time, requiring careful monitoring in patients taking both medications.
C) Hyperkalemia: While hyperkalemia can occur with certain lipid-lowering medications, it is not a common side effect associated with gemfibrozil. This drug primarily affects triglycerides and cholesterol levels without significantly impacting potassium levels.
D) Increased creatinine clearance: Gemfibrozil is not known to increase creatinine clearance; in fact, it can sometimes affect renal function. Monitoring kidney function is important, but increased creatinine clearance is not an expected outcome with this medication.
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Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) "Acts on the beta cells within the heart and lungs to regulate cardiac rhythm.": This statement is incorrect because calcium channel blockers do not primarily act on beta cells. Instead, they block calcium channels in cardiac and smooth muscle, which affects heart contractility and conductivity.
B) "Increases heart rate and increases myocardial contractility.": Calcium channel blockers typically do the opposite; they decrease heart rate and myocardial contractility by inhibiting calcium entry into the heart muscle cells. Therefore, this statement does not accurately describe their mechanism of action.
C) "Reduces the contractility and conductivity of the heart.": This statement accurately reflects the action of calcium channel blockers. By blocking calcium entry, these medications decrease myocardial contractility and slow down electrical conduction through the heart, which can help manage dysrhythmias.
D) "Increase oxygen to the systemic circulation.": While calcium channel blockers can improve blood flow and reduce myocardial oxygen demand by decreasing heart workload, their primary action does not directly focus on increasing oxygen delivery to systemic circulation. Their primary role is in managing heart contractility and rhythm.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Carvedilol: While carvedilol is a beta-blocker that can be used to treat hypertension, it is not considered a first-line treatment. Beta-blockers are typically used when other first-line agents are not effective or in specific situations such as heart failure or ischemic heart disease.
B) Lisinopril: Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor and is considered a first-line treatment for hypertension. It effectively reduces blood pressure by inhibiting the angiotensin-converting enzyme, leading to vasodilation and decreased blood volume. Its well-documented efficacy and favorable side effect profile make it a common choice for initial therapy.
C) Clonidine: Clonidine is an alpha-2 adrenergic agonist that can lower blood pressure but is generally not used as a first-line treatment due to its side effects and potential for rebound hypertension if discontinued abruptly.
D) Doxazosin: Doxazosin is an alpha-1 blocker that can be used to treat hypertension but is not typically a first-line choice. It may be used in specific cases, such as in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia, but other classes of medications are usually preferred for initial hypertension treatment.