Question 81

An increase in serum potassium levels may occur when lisinopril is taken with spironolactone.

Taking lisinopril in combination with spironolactone can lead to an increase in serum potassium levels due to both medications' effects on renal function and potassium retention.

A) Amlodipine

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker primarily used to treat hypertension and does not have a significant effect on potassium levels. Therefore, it is unlikely to cause an increase in serum potassium levels when taken with lisinopril.

B) Atorvastatin

Atorvastatin is a statin used to lower cholesterol levels and does not influence potassium metabolism. Consequently, it does not contribute to elevated serum potassium levels when used with lisinopril.

C) Furosemide

Furosemide is a loop diuretic that promotes the excretion of potassium. When taken with lisinopril, it is more likely to cause a decrease in serum potassium levels rather than an increase, making it an incorrect choice in this context.

D) Spironolactone

Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can lead to increased potassium retention. When combined with lisinopril, which also spares potassium, this combination can significantly elevate serum potassium levels, making it the correct answer.

Conclusion

In summary, the combination of lisinopril and spironolactone is known to increase serum potassium levels due to their synergistic effects on potassium retention. In contrast, amlodipine, atorvastatin, and furosemide either do not affect potassium levels or decrease them, thus reinforcing that D is the only correct option in this scenario.