Question

The nurse notes that a client's prescription was changed from captopril to losartan, even though the captopril provided effective blood pressure control. Which is the most likely reason for discontinuing the captopril?

A
Rash and itching
B
Dry cough Correct Answer (Blank)
C
Blurred vision
D
Sexual dysfunction

Answer 1

The most likely reason for discontinuing captopril and switching to losartan is the dry cough side effect of captopril, which is less common with losartan.

Step-by-step explanation:

The most likely reason for discontinuing captopril and switching to losartan, even though captopril was effectively controlling the client's blood pressure, is because of its common side effect of a dry cough. Captopril belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, and dry cough is a well-known side effect of ACE inhibitors. Losartan, on the other hand, belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which have a lower incidence of causing a dry cough.

The dry cough caused by ACE inhibitors is thought to be due to the accumulation of bradykinin, a substance that leads to coughing. By switching to losartan, which works differently by blocking angiotensin II receptors instead of inhibiting ACE, the risk of experiencing a dry cough is reduced.

It's important for the nurse to assess and address any side effects experienced by the client to ensure their comfort and adherence to the prescribed medication.