Question

What should be the dose of hydrochlorothiazide (as hypertensive) given to older patients? What labs should be monitored?

a) 12.5 mg/day; monitor electrolytes and renal function
b) 25 mg/day; monitor liver enzymes and blood glucose
c) 50 mg/day; monitor lipid profile and thyroid function
d) 100 mg/day; monitor complete blood count and coagulation parameters

Answer 1

For older patients with hypertension, the recommended starting dose of hydrochlorothiazide is
`12.5 mg/day`, and the labs that should be monitored are electrolytes and renal function.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks, What should be the dose of hydrochlorothiazide (as hypertensive) given to older patients? What labs should be monitored? The correct answer to this question is a)
`12.5 mg/day` ; monitor electrolytes and renal function. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic medication commonly prescribed for hypertension, and it works by promoting the excretion of sodium and water through the kidneys to lower blood pressure.When treating older patients with hydrochlorothiazide it is important to initiate treatment at a lower dosage because they may be more sensitive to the effects of diuretics. A starting dose of
`12.5 mg/day` is often recommended to minimize the risk of side effects and can be increased if needed based on the patient's response to the medication.

Laboratory tests that should be monitored include the electrolyte levels, particularly potassium and sodium, as well as the patient's renal function. This is because diuretics can lead to alterations in electrolyte balance and impact kidney function, making regular monitoring essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.