Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What is the primary effect of ibuprofen on a patient taking hydrochlorothiazide for hypertension?

1. It increases the chances of adverse effects to her health

2. It inhibits the effect of renal prostaglandins and blunts the effectiveness of the diuretic

3. It prolongs the therapeutic effects of hydrochlorothiazide and other diuretics

4. None of the statements are true

The correct answer is: It inhibits the effect of renal prostaglandins and blunts the effectiveness of the diuretic

The primary effect of ibuprofen on a patient taking hydrochlorothiazide for hypertension is that it inhibits the effect of renal prostaglandins and blunts the effectiveness of the diuretic. Ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can interfere with renal function by blocking the synthesis of prostaglandins, which are vital for maintaining adequate renal blood flow and proper kidney function. Hydrochlorothiazide works as a thiazide diuretic, which promotes the excretion of sodium and water, reducing blood volume and lowering blood pressure. The prostaglandins enhance the effects of thiazide diuretics by promoting renal blood flow and glomerular filtration rate. When a patient takes ibuprofen concurrently with hydrochlorothiazide, the NSAID can diminish the diuretic's efficacy, leading to less effective blood pressure control and potential fluid retention. Understanding this interaction is essential, as it highlights the importance of monitoring patients who are on both medications for changes in blood pressure and fluid status, ensuring any necessary adjustments in therapy can be made to maintain effective hypertension management.