Which antihypertensive medication is contraindicated in GERD?

Which antihypertensive medication is contraindicated in GERD?

• A. ACE inhibitors.
• B. Calcium channel blockers and beta blockers.
• C. Angiotensin receptor blockers.
• D. Diuretics.

Answer: (B)

Medications that relax the lower esophageal sphincter or slow esophageal clearance can worsen GERD. Calcium channel blockers relax smooth muscle, including the lower esophageal sphincter, which lowers the barrier to reflux and can make GERD symptoms worse. Some beta blockers can slow gastrointestinal motility and esophageal clearance, contributing to more reflux episodes in susceptible individuals. Because of these effects on the esophagus, this group is the one you’d generally consider avoiding or using with caution in patients who have GERD. In contrast, ACE inhibitors and ARBs mainly act on the renin-angiotensin system and don’t have a direct, meaningful impact on LES tone. Diuretics don’t directly increase reflux risk, though they can cause dehydration or electrolyte shifts that are not specifically GERD-related. So the combination of effects from relaxing LES and slowing GI transit makes calcium channel blockers and beta blockers the best fit for contraindication in GERD.

Medications that relax the lower esophageal sphincter or slow esophageal clearance can worsen GERD. Calcium channel blockers relax smooth muscle, including the lower esophageal sphincter, which lowers the barrier to reflux and can make GERD symptoms worse. Some beta blockers can slow gastrointestinal motility and esophageal clearance, contributing to more reflux episodes in susceptible individuals. Because of these effects on the esophagus, this group is the one you’d generally consider avoiding or using with caution in patients who have GERD.

In contrast, ACE inhibitors and ARBs mainly act on the renin-angiotensin system and don’t have a direct, meaningful impact on LES tone. Diuretics don’t directly increase reflux risk, though they can cause dehydration or electrolyte shifts that are not specifically GERD-related. So the combination of effects from relaxing LES and slowing GI transit makes calcium channel blockers and beta blockers the best fit for contraindication in GERD.