Question

A 48-year-old man with newly diagnosed uncomplicated hypertension (average clinic BP 160/98 mmHg) and no comorbidities is started on pharmacological therapy. According to Australian hypertension management guidance, which class of medication is generally preferred as an initial agent in such a patient?

Accepted Answer

Thiazide or thiazide-like diuretic (e.g. indapamide)

Answer

Beta blocker (e.g. atenolol)

Answer

Alpha blocker (e.g. prazosin)

Answer

Centrally acting agent (e.g. clonidine)

Answer

Direct vasodilator (e.g. hydralazine)

Practice question