CEA Nursing Practice Exam

In a trans female patient who stopped medication abruptly and presents with hypotension, which medication is most likely responsible for this condition?

1. Progestin (Heather)

2. Prednisone (Deltasone)

3. Abarelix (Plenaxis)

4. Spironolactone (Aldactone)

The correct answer is: Prednisone (Deltasone)

In a trans female patient who has stopped medication abruptly and is experiencing hypotension, prednisone is the medication most likely responsible for this condition. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that helps manage inflammation and regulates various bodily functions, including blood pressure. When taken regularly, prednisone helps to maintain normal physiological functions, including the body's responses to stress. Abruptly stopping this medication can lead to adrenal insufficiency, where the body is unable to produce sufficient corticosteroids to maintain normal hormone levels, particularly cortisol. This lack of cortisol can result in symptoms such as hypotension, fatigue, and general malaise. It's important to understand that the other medications listed, such as progestin, abarelix, and spironolactone, do not have the same significant impact on blood pressure regulation or adrenal function when stopped suddenly. Progestin has a more minor role in hormone modulation and does not typically lead to significant hypotension. Abarelix is a GnRH antagonist used in hormonal treatments and isn't associated with hypotension due to abrupt cessation. Spironolactone is a diuretic that can affect electrolyte balance and blood pressure but does not typically cause hypotension when discontinued, as its effects are primarily related to potassium-sparing diuresis rather