NSAIDs have what effect on antihypertensive efficacy?

NSAIDs have what effect on antihypertensive efficacy?

• A. Decrease antihypertensive efficacy
• B. Increase antihypertensive efficacy
• C. Potentiate calcium channel blockers
• D. No interaction with antihypertensives

Answer: (A)

NSAIDs blunt the blood‑pressure–lowering effect of antihypertensive meds. They inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the kidney, which normally helps keep renal blood flow up and supports natriuresis. When prostaglandins are reduced, the afferent arteriole constricts, renal perfusion drops, and sodium and water retention occur. This counteracts how many antihypertensives work—especially diuretics and ACE inhibitors or ARBs—leading to a weaker antihypertensive effect. It’s not an overall increase in efficacy or a specific enhancement of calcium channel blockers, and claiming no interaction would be incorrect.

NSAIDs blunt the blood‑pressure–lowering effect of antihypertensive meds. They inhibit prostaglandin synthesis in the kidney, which normally helps keep renal blood flow up and supports natriuresis. When prostaglandins are reduced, the afferent arteriole constricts, renal perfusion drops, and sodium and water retention occur. This counteracts how many antihypertensives work—especially diuretics and ACE inhibitors or ARBs—leading to a weaker antihypertensive effect. It’s not an overall increase in efficacy or a specific enhancement of calcium channel blockers, and claiming no interaction would be incorrect.