🏥 USMLE Exam Prep

A 65-year-old male with a history of hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is prescribed a new medication for his BPH. Within a week, he develops orthostatic hypotension and dizziness. Which of the following classes of medications was most likely prescribed?

A 5-alpha reductase inhibitor (e.g., finasteride).
B Muscarinic antagonist (e.g., oxybutynin).
C Alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist (e.g., prazosin).
D Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor (e.g., sildenafil).

✓ Correct Answer: Option C

Alpha-1 adrenergic antagonists, used for BPH, can cause orthostatic hypotension due to their vasodilatory effects, especially in patients with existing hypertension or on antihypertensive medications.

💡 Why is C) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "A 65-year-old male with a history of hypertension and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is prescribed a new medication for his BPH. Within a week, he develops orthostatic hypotension and dizziness. Which of the following classes of medications was most likely prescribed?" is Option C: Alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist (e.g., prazosin)..

The other options — A) 5-alpha reductase inhibitor (e.g., finasteride)., B) Muscarinic antagonist (e.g., oxybutynin)., D) Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitor (e.g., sildenafil). — are incorrect for this USMLE Exam Prep question. As explained above: Alpha-1 adrenergic antagonists, used for BPH, can cause orthostatic hypotension due to their vasodilatory effects, especially in patients with existing hypertension or on antihypertensive medications.

📚 About This USMLE Exam Prep Practice Question

This 2-level USMLE Exam Prep question from the Step 3 – Clinical Management topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free USMLE Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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