Select whether the following drugs carry a risk of causing hyperkalemia or hypokalemia:
Explanation & Rationale
Losartan: As an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), losartan reduces aldosterone secretion, leading to decreased potassium excretion and potential hyperkalemia, especially in patients with renal impairment or those on potassium supplements. Furosemide: This loop diuretic promotes the excretion of sodium and potassium in the urine, commonly resulting in hypokalemia. Patients on furosemide often require potassium monitoring or supplementation. Spironolactone: A potassium-sparing diuretic and aldosterone antagonist, spironolactone reduces potassium excretion in the distal nephron. This can lead to hyperkalemia, particularly when used with other potassium-elevating drugs. Lisinopril: An ACE inhibitor that blocks the conversion of angiotensin I to II, reducing aldosterone levels and thereby decreasing potassium excretion. This places patients at risk for hyperkalemia. Digoxin: This cardiac glycoside may cause hypokalemia indirectly by increasing sensitivity to potassium shifts. Additionally, low potassium levels enhance digoxin toxicity, so maintaining normal potassium is critical during therapy.